Planning is key to a flawless face on your wedding day

Q: What should I expect from a professional makeup artist, if I have my makeup professionally done?

Katie: First things first: You should absolutely set up a trial run with someone to ensure that the two of you are on the same page. I can’t express how crucial this is. This is your spectacular and special day and you want your ‘glam squad’ to be sure they are making you feel and look your very best. You should bring:

1. Picture of your dress 2. Picture of color scheme and ideas for the wedding so that your makeup artist can get a feel for the magical day.

3. Bring the makeup you currently own so that he or she can understand what you like.

4. Have an idea and some images to show your artist what kind of look you are going for. If at all possible have a clear idea of what it is you like and also don’t like!

5. Be open to his or her suggestions.

You will need a touch more color, brightening and contouring due to photography and lighting. I am a huge advocate of natural and modern makeup. It is chic and timeless. You will have your wedding photos forever and you want your husband to always admire them.

6. Discuss pricing and all details.

It is best policy to sign a contract and give a deposit. Review all details in an email so that there is no confusion whatsoever. It is best to have someone else cut the final check the day of the wedding so that you can be at ease and glow in your bridal glory!

Q: Should I have my bridesmaids get their makeup done? Katie: After 18 years in the business and doing many weddings around the country, I am just old-fashioned and I adore having the bride with all her bridesmaids getting their makeup done. It is such an emotional and monumental day. I always encourage my bride to have her maid of honor make a play list of songs that the group enjoys and brings back memories. It’s a blast to see everyone together laughing about old times and looking forward to new adventures in the journey of life. It also shows your bridesmaids how much you truly appreciate the time, money and effort they put into your day. Don’t forget to honor them like they have for you. I recently did a wedding in Alabama that I will never forget. The bride and her 12 maids were incredibly all different but each amazing and unforgettable. I will always cherish that I could witness the excitement and love they shared. And who doesn’t love looking and feeling fabulous when walking down the aisle???

Q. How do I make my makeup last in this Louisiana humidity? Katie: 1. Laura Mercier Mineral Primer- $33 BBarnett.com By far best I have ever used for humid weather. You must wear a foundation primer under your foundation the day of your wedding, especially here in Louisiana. This primer dries down to a matte finish to give longevity in the humidity. Even if someone is not oily they should use this under a regular foundation. Created for the most sensitive skin type. Makeup stays fresh and colourtrue throughout the day. Makeup can tend to change color when we perspire so this is a huge benefit. Always my go to primer for the bride. Always.

2. Trish McEvoy Eye Base Essential- $26 Nordstrom.com Brightens the eye like you wouldn’t believe for photography and locks shadow in place for a creaseproof humidity friendly all day wear.

3. Trish McEvoy Lash Curling Mascara- $31 Nordstrom.com Don’t you worry girlfriend you can cry at the alter and this will not smudge or smear.This is a tubular curling mascara that forms a 360 degree around the lashes, dries instantly. You can cry in this mascara and it won’t run. Very few brands make a gel based mascara. Can’t live without this one!

4. Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Liner-$20 Ulta.com This is the liner you need in the South! Smudge proof. Amazing shade range to choose from. Voted Best of Beauty by Allure Magazine 2013.

5. Laura Mercier Smooth Focus Pressed Setting Powder-$34 B.Barnett.com Brilliantly and visibly eliminates shine without making the bride look overdone. Has a green tint to soften any redness. Talc free.

I adore this because it makes our pores look smaller. Crucial for any warm day.

Incredible for touch ups. I only apply this using a velour puff and pressing and rolling into the skin to lock in your makeup. Think of it like Saran Wrap for your skin.

6. Urban Decay Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray- $30 Ulta.com This is the last thing that is applied before walking down the aisle. Spray on mist that keeps makeup looking super gorgeous for up to 16 hours. No melting or fading. Truly a bride’s best friend.

Have a makeup question? Email our expert at editor@theforumnews. com to submit your question.