What I Forbid My Brides to Do Before Their Wedding (Because I Love You!)

If you’re a bride-to-be, listen up!

As a pro bridal makeup artist in Sydney with years of experience helping women glow on their big day, I’ve seen it all — from last-minute skincare disasters to tan troubles.

So, here’s my list of what I lovingly forbid my brides to do before their wedding. These little things? They make a BIG difference to your look, your photos, and how you feel walking down the aisle.

Let’s dive in…

1. Don’t Skip Your Skincare the Night Before

Even if you’re exhausted, please don’t fall into bed with your makeup on or skip your routine.

Your wedding makeup will sit beautifully on hydrated, clean skin — not dry or neglected skin.

Wedding makeup tip: Gently exfoliate the night before (if your skin is used to it), and follow with a hydrating serum and moisturiser. You’ll wake up fresh-faced and radiant.

2. No New Skincare or Treatments Close to the Wedding

Thinking of trying a new serum, retinol, or facial days before the big day? Please don’t.

Your skin could react — and no one wants unexpected breakouts or redness under their bridal makeup.

Stick to your trusted routine and save new products or treatments for after the honeymoon.

3. Don’t Stay Up Late the Night Before Your Wedding

Lack of sleep = puffiness, tired eyes, and low energy. Not ideal for your wedding day glam!

Aim to get a solid 7–8 hours of sleep the night before so you can feel refreshed and calm.

Tip: Turn off screens, sip some herbal tea, and wind down early. Your glow will thank you!

4. Avoid Salty Foods the Night Before

High-sodium meals can cause bloating and puffiness — especially around your eyes and jawline.

The goal? Wake up looking sculpted and fresh, not swollen.

Choose light, whole foods with lots of water the night before.

5. Don’t Get a New Fake Tan Without a Trial

I’ve seen it too many times — a bride wakes up patchy, orange, or uneven.

Always test your spray tan or self-tan brand weeks in advance to make sure it suits your skin tone and works with your dress and makeup.

Bonus tip: Book your final tan 2 days before the wedding for the most natural finish.

6. Don’t Wax or Tweeze Brows on the Day

Freshly tweezed brows can be red, irritated, or even broken out.

For best results, shape your brows at least 3–4 days before your wedding.

This gives the skin time to settle and makes your makeup application smoother.

7. No pimple popping!!!

Trust me—popping that pimple the night before your big day will only make it harder to cover. I can conceal a bump way better than an open wound!

8. No New Lipsticks, Skincare or Foundation

Even if a new product is trending online, your wedding day is not the time to experiment.

New products can cause irritation or may not work with your skin.

Stick to the products we’ve tried and tested during your trial — they’ve already been chosen to suit you perfectly.

9. Don’t Overthink Your Look

It’s so normal to second-guess things the night before — but I promise, your makeup trial was designed with intention.

Trust the look, trust your artist (me), and focus on enjoying the day.

You’re going to look stunning.

10. Don’t Forget to Eat & Stay Hydrated

You’ll be busy, but don’t skip meals or forget to drink water.

Low blood sugar = low energy. Dehydration = dull skin. Neither of those are what you want on your wedding day.

Plan a light breakfast, pack a snack, and keep a water bottle nearby.

Want to Feel 100% Ready for Your Wedding?

I’ve created a Bridal Skincare & Prep Checklist I give to all my brides — it includes everything you need to glow, feel confident, and avoid last-minute stress.

Want a copy?

Click here to contact me or DM me “BRIDE READY” on Instagram and I’ll send it your way.

Can’t wait to help you feel your most beautiful self on your wedding day.

With love,

Nell x