The best of both worlds: Current Trends for Brides with Two Looks on Their Wedding Day

Hey there! Who says you have to settle for just one amazing bridal look on your big day?  Many brides are embracing the trend of having two distinct looks on their wedding day—a captivating ceremony style and a fabulous reception transformation. From switching up your hairstyle to experimenting with different makeup vibes, the possibilities are endless. In this blog post, we'll explore the trends for brides wanting two looks on their special day, allowing you to showcase your unique style and make a memorable statement from "I do" to the dance floor.

Ceremony Elegance

For the ceremony, it's all about timeless elegance. We're talking classic updos that scream sophistication. Pair your updo with a subtle, glowing makeup style—soft blush, neutral eyeshadows, and a touch of lip colour to enhance your features while exuding an air of timeless beauty (the classic Pillow Talk by Charlotte Tilbury). If you are not having your hair and makeup stylist stay throughout the day, pick a hair style that allows you to take out a few grips to then let your hair down for the dancefloor!

Reception Glam

Let Your Hair Down! One popular trend is to let your hair down—literally—and embrace voluminous waves or loose curls. This effortlessly chic style creates a sense of movement and adds a touch of playfulness to your overall look. Add more of a statement lip, or simply freshen up with a bit of shimmer!

Accessory Swap

Transitioning from ceremony to reception? Accessories are your secret weapon. Start your day with delicate pieces – maybe a dainty tiara, subtle necklace, or classic pearls. Then, as the party lights up, switch things up with show-stopping accessories. Start the day with delicate and timeless pieces—a subtle hair comb, a delicate necklace, or classic pearl earrings. Then, for the reception, make a statement with bolder and more eye-catching accessories. Opt for a statement necklace, showstopping earrings, or an intricately beaded headpiece. These accessories will add a touch of glamour and create a noticeable transformation as you dance the night away.

Outfit Change

Ready to wow? A whole new look If you really want to make a splash, consider a complete outfit change. Swap your traditional wedding gown for a stunning reception dress that reflects your personal style. From a chic jumpsuit to a glamorous sequined gown or a cocktail dress, the options are endless. This allows you to have two distinct looks that showcase different sides of your personality, while also keeping you comfortable and ready to dance the night away.

Embracing two looks on your wedding day allows you to express different sides of your personality and create unforgettable moments throughout the celebration. From classic elegance during the ceremony to glamorous transformations for the reception, the current trends offer endless possibilities. Whether it's through hairstyle changes, makeup transformations, accessory swaps, outfit variations or having your Margot + Lace glam team on standby throughout the day, these trends allow you to shine and make a statement at every moment of your special day.

From classic updos to Boho Braids: Bridal hair trends to fall in love with.

When it comes to bridal hairstyles, there are endless possibilities. From classic and timeless updos to effortlessly romantic boho braids, the options are endless. Your wedding day is the perfect opportunity to showcase your personal style and highlight your natural beauty through your hair. In this blog post, we'll explore a range of bridal hair trends that will make you fall head over heels.

The classic updos

Classic updos have stood the test of time for a reason—they exude elegance and sophistication. From sleek chignons to intricate twisted bun hairstyles, updos are versatile and can be customized to suit your dress and overall bridal style. Whether you opt for a low bun, a high top knot, or a textured updo, these timeless hairstyles will make sure you look effortlessly polished and picture-perfect throughout your special day.

Half-Up styles

For brides who want a balance between an updo and flowing locks, half-up hairstyles offer the perfect solution. These romantic and feminine styles allow you to showcase the beauty of both upstyled and downstyled hair, the best of both worlds right? Think twisted half-up hairstyles with delicate flowers, braided half-updos with cascading curls, or loose waves pinned back with decorative hair accessories.

The Pony

Pony tails but elevated! These have gained popularity among brides for their effortless but chic vibe. There are so many variations that you can choose, a high or low pony or add in some twists and curls. Not only will it add sophistication and a touch of glamour to your day but it will stay out of your face and is a canvas to add some great accessories!

The Hollywood wave

You will have seen these all over your Pinterest boards! A real hot bridal trend for 2023 and we understand why. They add the glam factor to your look, want to go a step further? Add some pearl grips to one side to tie it all together.

Accessorise!

No bridal hairstyle is complete without the perfect accessories. Delicate hair accessories can elevate your chosen hairstyle and add a touch of luxury. From pearl hairpins to floral crowns and delicate veils, the right accessory can enhance your bridal look and tie everything together beautifully. Choose accessories that complement your hairstyle and overall wedding theme. See our blog post to see some hair accessory options.

So there you have it – These are just a few of the popular hairstyles we have seen at Margot + Lace over the last year. The variations of these hairstyles are also something worth to consider, maybe add a braid or a twist. Choose a hairstyle that reflects your personal style, but also be conscious of what your hair is like. Be sure to communicate this with your bridal hair stylist to ensure you create a look that will last all day. If you hair cannot hold a curl, maybe opt for an updo or if you are used to having your hair down but want it off your face maybe opt for a half up half down look. Have a look at our Pinterest board to get some inspiration and bring these picture to your trial!

Bridal Makeup Dos and Don'ts: Expert Advice for Picture-Perfect Results

Hey there, lovely brides! As makeup artists who's had the honour of working with countless amazing brides, we’ve seen the magic that the right makeup can bring to your big day. Bridal makeup plays a crucial role in achieving a flawless and radiant appearance that will be captured in cherished wedding photos. So, let's dive into this blog where I spill all the beans on what to do and what to avoid to ensure that your bridal makeup is perfect and stands the test of time.

Dos:

Do prioritise skincare: Beautiful makeup starts with a healthy and well-prepped canvas. Prioritise skincare leading up to your wedding day. Regularly cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, and protect your skin with SPF. Consider booking professional facials and using hydrating masks to ensure a radiant complexion. Well-nourished and properly cared for skin will provide the perfect base for flawless makeup application. We will create a dedicated blog post to skin care but be sure to discuss this with your stylist at your trial.

Do Opt for a natural and timeless Look: When it comes to bridal makeup and us at Margot + Lace, our goal is to enhance your natural beauty and create a timeless look that will withstand the test of time. Choose soft, neutral tones that complement your skin tone and wedding theme. Now that’s not to say you can’t add a bit of sparkle! But remember, these photos will withstand any current makeup trends you want to experiment with.

Do emphasise your best features: Firstly, you are beautiful! The right makeup artist for you is one that takes your stunning features and simply accentuates them. Focus on enhancing what you love most about yourself and communicate that with your stylist at your makeup trial.

Makeup that goes the distance: We all know the big day comes with its fair share of emotions. There's joy, laughter, and maybe a few happy tears. To make sure your makeup stays put, opt for the long-lasting, waterproof, and smudge-proof heroes of the makeup world. Margot + Lace will give you a touch up kit on your wedding day but if you if you feel you need anything in particular, be sure to purchase these well in advance.

Don'ts:

Don't experiment with new products on your wedding day: Your wedding day is not the time to try out new skincare products or makeup. Side note: This would be the only option if there is no time for trial but at Margot + Lace we will call and discuss your current products to fully understand your skin tone and complexion.  Stick to the skincare routine and makeup products that you know work well for your skin and that we have used in the trial. Avoid any potential allergic reactions or unexpected results by staying with tried and tested products leading up to your big day.

Less is more: Avoid heavy-handed application and overly dramatic looks that can overpower your natural beauty. We're all about enhancing your natural beauty, not masking it!

Extend the love: Your face won't be the only area that will be captured in your wedding photos. Ensure that your neck and décolletage are seamlessly blended with your face by extending your makeup application to these areas. This will create a cohesive and flawless look from top to bottom. Even add a little contour and highlight to really make them pop!

Don't neglect the importance of professional expertise: To achieve truly flawless and luxurious bridal makeup, enlist the services of a professional makeup artist experienced in working with brides. Our expertise, knowledge of products, and ability to create customised looks will ensure that you feel pampered and confident on your special day. We also understand how makeup translates in different lighting conditions, ensuring you look stunning both in person and in photographs.

Final words: By following these dos and don'ts of bridal makeup, you'll be well on your way to achieving picture-perfect results that will leave you feeling like a radiant and elegant bride. Remember, it's all about pampering that skin, embracing your natural beauty, and calling in the experts when needed.

Hair Accessories to Elevate Your Bridal Hairstyle

We know that your wedding day is about bringing your dream look to life and your hairstyle can play be a key element in achieving this. So you have narrowed down the kind of style you like, have you thought about accessories? From delicate clips to statement headbands, the right accessories can be that added touch of luxury you were looking for. In this blog post, we'll explore a range of stunning hair accessories that we love!

Hair Comb

A hair comb is a versatile and stunning accessory that can be incorporated into various hairstyles. From half-up styles to chic updos, a hair comb adds a touch of sparkle and visual interest. Look for a comb embellished with rhinestones, flowers or pearls to complement your bridal look. With a gentle placement, it will secure your hairstyle while adding a glamorous finishing touch.

Delicate Hair Vine

For a whimsical and romantic touch, a hair vine is the perfect choice. Made with delicate wires adorned with crystals, pearls, or floral elements, a hair vine can be woven through your hair or draped along a braid or updo. Its flexible nature allows for versatile styling, creating a soft and ethereal look that perfectly captures your Bohemian spirit. However just as a side note, if you wanted a second look with different accessories, a hair vine can be difficult to remove without pulling out a few perfectly placed hair pieces.

Take a Bow

 If you want to make a bold and stylish statement, a large and eye-catching bow is the way to go. This statement piece will draw attention and add a contemporary and fashion-forward element to your hairstyle.

Elegant Headband

A classic headband is a timeless choice for brides who prefer simplicity and elegance. Look for a headband embellished with crystals, pearls, or delicate beading to add a touch of understated glamour. Whether you choose a thin and delicate band or a wider, more statement-making piece, a headband will beautifully frame your face and hold your hair in place throughout the day. Make sure you trial this for long periods of time prior to the big day to avoid pressure headaches from happening!

Romantic Hair Pins

Hair pins are versatile, delicate, and perfect for adding subtle sparkle to your hairstyle. Choose hair pins adorned with pearls, crystals, or floral designs. These pins can be scattered throughout an updo, used to secure loose waves, or tucked into a braided style. They add a touch of romance and create an effortless yet polished look.

These are just a few of our favourites that we have seen over the last year and one’s we are sure to see in 2023 and 2024 as professional wedding hair stylists. If you are looking to elevate your bridal hair, please be sure to speak to your stylist as we have a range of accessories to try at our Cotswold based studio.

Embracing Natural Beauty: Do You Need a Bridal Makeup Artist if You Don't Like Wearing Makeup?

Hey there, beautiful brides-to-be! On your wedding day, it's important to feel comfortable, confident, and true to yourself. If you're someone who doesn't typically enjoy wearing lots of makeup, you may be wondering whether it's necessary to hire a bridal makeup artist for your special day. Well, you’re in the right place! In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of working with a professional makeup artist and provide guidance on how to achieve a natural, minimalist bridal look.

Enhancing Your Features

Real talk - A skilled bridal makeup artist understands how to enhance your natural features while keeping the makeup minimal and fresh. We can work with you to create a customised look that highlights your best features and ensures you feel like the best version of yourself on your wedding day. From subtle enhancements to evening out your skin tone to accentuating your eyes or lips, a professional makeup artist can create a soft and natural look that enhances your natural beauty without feeling heavy or unnatural.

Expertise in Photography Makeup

Wedding photography plays a significant role in capturing the memories of your special day. We, as professional makeup artists are experienced in creating makeup looks that are camera-friendly whilst ensuring you look flawless and radiant in your wedding photos. We understand how different lighting conditions and camera flashes can affect your makeup and will use products and techniques that will withstand the demands of photography while still maintaining a natural appearance.

Stress-Free Experience

Wedding days can be hectic, and having a professional makeup artist takes the pressure off you. No matter the stylist, we will arrive at your chosen location whether that is in the Cotswolds or further afield and fully equipped with all the necessary tools and products, allowing you to relax and enjoy the pampering experience.

It’s all about you!

Communicate your preferences and concerns with your makeup artist during your trial. See notes about your trial experience.  Share your desire for a minimal and natural look, emphasising your desire to feel comfortable and like yourself. We always say this, you will never offend us! We want you to feel like you and the best way is to have open and honest communication at your trial so we can both work out your desired look.

Product knowledge and quality

We, as makeup artists, have access to a wide range of high-quality, long-lasting products that are specifically formulated for special occasions like weddings. Some of our favourites are Charlotte Tilbury, NARS, Laura Mercier, Dior Beauty and Hourglass (just to name a few). We will choose products that suit your skin type and tone, ensuring a flawless finish that lasts throughout the day. Our expertise in product selection and application techniques will ensure that your makeup looks natural, enhancing your features without overpowering your face.

Extra Touches of TLC

Beyond makeup application, we can provide additional tips and tricks to ensure your skin and makeup are on top form for your wedding day. We offer skin prep tips, provide recommendations for skincare products, and advise you on how to maintain a healthy complexion leading up to your wedding day. See our recommendations for non-invasive beauty treatments post.

Final thoughts: While it's entirely up to you whether to hire a bridal makeup artist or not, there are numerous benefits to consider. Even if you don't typically enjoy wearing makeup, a professional makeup artist can create a natural, minimalist look that enhances your features and ensures you feel confident and comfortable on your wedding day. Ultimately, the goal is for you to feel like the most beautiful and authentic version of yourself.

Your bridal make-up trial guide

Everything you need to about preparing for a bridal trial with us.

Thank you, by the way! I’m so pleased that you’ve chosen us as your makeup artist for your wedding. It’s an incredible honour, and a massive responsibility. You are going to look incredible.

Okay, let’s get stuck in …

Create a mood board – Whether it’s a physical mood board you’ve created with images from magazines stuck to a piece of card, or a selection of things you like on Pinterest, it’s soooo helpful for us to see what you like and what you don’t. So, this is an amazing start and a great way for you to get the most from your trial. Just keep in mind, that photos of hair and makeup on Pinterest are usually heavily airbrushed and filtered. So, while we’re very experienced at what we do, one needs to be realistic! And also, our face shapes, tones and textures are all so different that it’s impossible to create a carbon copy of the look you want to achieve. But trust me, we’ll get as close as I can, and you’ll still look like you. Promise.

Prepare your skin – Try to get your skin in great shape for your bridal trial. Your makeup will look it’s best on clean and hydrated skin. So, lots of pampering –cleansing, moisturising, special skin treats and loads of water please.

Bring your make up bag – We need to get a feel of your every day look, and see the foundations and lipsticks you love. You’ll have a beautiful blank canvas for me to work on for the day of your makeup trial, but part of our time together is getting to know you and what makes you tick.

Wear white – Wearing white reflects the light back onto the face, so even if you don’t intend to wear a white wedding dress, a white top will make your makeup look it’s best. You could bring along a scarf or a piece of fabric in the colour of your dress if you’re able to. And if you are wearing white on your wedding day, by coming to your trial in a white top, we can ensure we get the tone of your skin just right. Also, please wear something comfortable. We’ll be sat together chatting for a couple of hours. We want you to relax and enjoy it. We’re your very own glam squad for the day!

Bring hair pieces and your veil – We need to get a feel of your overall look on the day. And with this in mind, an image of your dress will be really helpful too. And bring a friend – if you’re somebody who likes to get others take on things, you’re more than welcome to have somebody with you to offer their thoughts and opinions. But keep in mind, while feedback is great – too much can be just as unhelpful as none. Your hair and make up are such personal choices and what others may consider ‘natural’ or ‘bold’ may not be what you feel. So, if you’ve got a strong idea about the look you want to achieve, then come along solo. Just do what feels right for you.

And the only thing that’s left to say is enjoy it! We always do. We want you to feel comfortable and relaxed and be able to tell us all about yourself and things you like and don’t like. We’ll advise you on the products and techniques we use, ways to keep your make up looking fresh during your wedding day and share my ideas. But the aim of the bridal trial is to achieve a look which YOU love, so you can look the best you ever have and feel gorgeous and confident walking down the aisle. It’s your wedding day and your moment. And we are so pleased to be sharing it with you.

Non-invasive beauty treatments for brides

I always say, be natural, be yourself. And with this blog, I’m not going to tell you to run off to the nearest surgeon with a wodge of cash and an overnight bag. But there are a few beauty treatments available which are really effective and safe and will help you look and feel your best on your wedding day.

My only advice would be, trial these treatments well in advance. I’m talking weeks, possibly months, so you can get used to the results and rule out any possible reactions.

Okay, lets go …

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is deep exfoliation treatment that removes dead skin cells and those fuzzy hairs on your face. So …shaving your face …with a surgical scalpel! Sounds weird, but it’s totally safe and when you see the results you’ll be amazed. Say goodbye to fine lines, dullness and spots and hello to baby soft, fuzz-free skin which glows. Give this one a test well in advance and please avoid it if you have highly sensitive skin or acne. If that’s you, fear not and read on!

Specialist facials

You don’t have to choose from a list of fixed facial treatments, especially if you have sensitive skin which needs special care. Find an amazing beauty therapist, tell them all of your concerns and let them tailor a facial for you. Have a few sessions before the big day. That way, they can target your problem areas over the weeks or months before your wedding. I know what it’s like to have skin issues. It’s the reason I became a makeup artist, and I cannot recommend a regular facial highly enough.

Microblading

If you’re not blessed with a beautiful brow with a killer arch, and your fed up of pencilling – microblading will rock your world. Unlike tattooing, which is essentially adding a block of colour, fine incisions are made to the top layer of your skin and then pigment is added to create the illusion of real hairs. It’s a semi-permanent treatment which has been around for thousands of years, and it’s totally safe. On your wedding day, when you’re hot and distracted, knowing your brows are on fleek will be one less thing to worry about.

Dermarolling

It’s sometimes called microneedling or dermastamping, and it’s a procedure which uses tiny needles to stimulate collagen and elastin. Dermarolling is great for treating fine lines, pores, acne scars and promoting plumper and more radiant skin. Give it a Google and you’ll see lots of home kits available. But dermarolling performed in clinics is a totally different thing altogether. See a professional if you’re thinking of trying this for the first time.

High gloss hair

Don’t neglect your locks. Treat your hair to a glossing treatment for shine, richness, vibrancy and volume. Here’s the science bit! A traditional hair dye opens up the hair shaft, removes natural hair pigments and stains the hair with a new colour. But glosses work in a different way in that it doesn’t open up the hair shaft at all. It closes the hair up super tight giving it a smoother, silkier texture which reflects the light. Tad dah! Again, there are products you can use at home but certainly for your first try, treat yourself to a trip to a really good salon.

I’m not a beauty treatment expert. Make up is my love. So, please please do your research, ask your friends for recommendations and trial any of these treatments well in advance of your wedding day.

I’d love to hear about your beauty treatment experiences. What salon treatments do you swear by? Which would you avoid? And if your wedding is fast approaching, which beauty treatment would you love to try?

Natasha xo

The one thing brides forget …and really shouldn’t

The sound of church bells, grabbing the bouquet with gusto, straining your neck to get your first glimpse at the bride and the taste of champagne. Weddings stimulate all of the senses. But what about smell?!

I know, right? I mean, you could stick to your everyday scent. That’s you. It’s comfortable. You trust it. Or, you could choose yourself a new wedding perfume – unique to your big day and completely in fitting with the look and feel of your wedding.

You can still capture familiar scents – something to calm your jitters. Don’t choose something really heady just for the sake of it. But over time, a whiff of your wedding perfume will transport you back to all of the emotions you were feeling and all of the fabulous memories. So, it’s a nice idea to choose something new for a finishing touch to your wedding look, which is also something really emotive.

Most brides will choose a floral scent for their wedding day, but if that’s not your thing – I’ve got some other ideas for you to try. Plus, some other perfume tips!

1. Dom Rosa - It. Smells. Of. Champagne. Nuff said!

2. Dior J’Adore – Classily feminine, romantic and flowery.

3. Charlotte Tilbury Scent of a Dream – The designer says it will bring love, light, power, positivity and sex. Well worth investing for your ‘something new’ I’d say.

4. Le Labo Santal 33 – It’s unisex but leans more towards a masculine scent. Perfect for the non-girly bride, or groom.

5. Escentric Molecules – Chemistry meet perfumery. A clever pair of perfumes that react to your own natural pheromones. Bit bonkers but really popular and smells lush.

6. Chanel No.5 – No introduction needed.

7. Jo Malone Peony and Blush Suede – Or anything by our Jo really. A really popular choice with brides. Jo Malone in Cheltenham offer a free bridal experience if you’re passing.

“Perfume is the most intense form of memory.”

That should be enough to get your nose twitching with excitement. But before you invest in a pricey bottle of gorgeousness, take a look at my 5 top tips for wedding-worthy perfume:

1. Test in store and wear for the whole day – that way you can live with it for a bit to help you make your mind up, and also check for any reaction to your skin.

2. Give it a chance – When you spray and sniff, it’s just the alcohol you’re smelling, with a few of the top notes. Spray on a blotter and allow a few minutes.

3. EDT is the only way - For long-lasting fragrance (because topping up won’t even enter your head once the day begins) choose an eau de toilette (EDT).

4. Moisturise – The oils within your perfume will cling to it and boost its staying power. Even better, pair up with the matching body cream.

5. Ask your friends – Your nose will desensitise and get used to your new perfume over time, so ask for a friend’s opinion. But remember, your perfume choice is completely personal to you.

Apologies for giving you another thing to add to your to do list! But it’s something many brides tell me was such an important part of their wedding day, and they were so glad they included it within their look.

Enjoy testing out your wedding perfume. Take some time out from the chaos of wedding planning and do something nice for yourself. And don’t forget to ask your groom-to-be to give you a little neck nuzzle for his own personal seal of approval!