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Empire Beauty's Signature Bridal Previews - What makes them so special?


One of the most common requests we receive from our bridal clients is for a trial appointment prior to their wedding day. We highly recommend booking a trial - we call trials a "preview appointment" - which is why they are automatically included in all of our Bridal Packages! But what sets our preview appointments apart? Why should you choose Empire Beauty Studios over another bridal team?


Over the past ten years, our artists and stylists have honed their skills and technical training in bridal artistry, and have developed a signature 12 Step Bridal Preview based on scientific principles as well as makeup & hairstyling theory. Our goal is to ensure that you look absolutely stunning from the moment you leave our chair, until the moment you step into your honeymoon suite, and for all the thousands of photographs and video frames in between!


One of the main reasons brides may not be completely satisfied with their photos is because there is a disconnect in the overall look: If your makeup is too dark or too light compared to where you are taking your photos, it can appear off in the photos; If your hairstyle is too casual or too flat compared to your wedding gown, something may look off in the photos; If your makeup colors were chosen for a daytime ceremony, but you're taking formal portraits during "golden hour," it can create a mismatch in your photos. At Empire Beauty Studios, we have learned and developed techniques to ensure complete harmony in your look and your photos, so that you will be absolutely thrilled with your photos when you receive them. Read on for a sneak peek into our 12 Step Bridal Preview appointments!



Empire Beauty Studios' Signature 12 Step Bridal Preview


1. Date/Season of Wedding

Do you know the differences between makeup for Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter weddings? We do! We understand what will translate well on camera, on film, and in person during different seasons. Colors and textures of makeup can appear too harsh or too light depending on the time of year. We'll make sure to help you select the best look for your wedding's season.


2. Time of Ceremony, Pictures, and Reception

Did you know that makeup colors can change depending on the lighting conditions? Just like how the color of grass appears different at different times of the day, your makeup can also be affected by the lighting. We know which colors will look best on you throughout the day, and we also offer touch-up services to ensure you look picture perfect no matter when your ceremony and pictures take place.


3. Indoor or Outdoor Ceremony/Reception

Artificial indoor lighting can affect your makeup differently compared to natural outdoor light. We have the expertise and equipment to recreate the lighting conditions of your wedding venue to ensure that you will love every photo taken by your photographer. Additionally, if your reception continues after sunset, flash photography may be used. We know which products and ingredients to avoid to prevent any unwanted "flash back" in your photos.


4. Color Theory

By using color theory, we can determine which colors to use and which ones to avoid for each client and the various situations they may find themselves in throughout their wedding day. For example, if you are planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, or if you plan on taking most of your photos outside, sticking to neutral colors like Champagnes, Taupes, and Browns will look the best.


5. Color, Black and White Photography, or Both?

Black and white photos have a limited range of shades. We have special techniques to enhance your features if your photographer primarily uses black and white photos.


6. Wedding Gown Color

Similar to how sitting in a salon chair with a black cape can reveal blemishes and color changes on your skin, your wedding gown color can also affect your makeup. White colors close to your skin tone can wash you out, not to mention that the color white is the most reflective of all colors, so we adjust your makeup accordingly to ensure you look "normal" on your wedding day and in your photos.


7. Style of Gown

To avoid a disconnect in your photos, we consider the style of your gown and your chosen makeup look. If you have a gown with sheer and flowy fabric, we ensure that your makeup is not too intense and dark. If you have a gown with heavy layers, we make sure your makeup is light and airy.


8. Gown's Neckline

Your gown's neckline plays a significant role in determining your makeup look. We match the lines and distinctness of your makeup to complement your plunging v-neck or high angled halter top. For soft sweetheart or cowl necklines, we create a soft and blended makeup look to match the flow of your neckline.


9. Your Coloring

Your personal coloring is crucial in creating harmony in your look and photos. With years of experience working with brides of all skin tones, hair colors, and eye colors, we know which colors will make you pop and which ones may blend in or look muddy. We consider your unique features along with the previous eight points to create a customized look just for you!


10. Your Preferences

Arguably the most important aspect of the 12 points, we take into account your personal preferences. This is your wedding, and the photos will be displayed on your wall for a lifetime. It is essential that you absolutely love your look, and that is our top priority. Whether you want a bold black lipstick or a classic bridal look, we will make it happen. This is YOUR wedding!

11. Location/Type of Wedding Event

The makeup and hairstyle chosen for an intimate backyard wedding should differ from the look chosen for a grand church cathedral wedding. For a backyard wedding, you may opt for a softer, more romantic look, with loose waves and a soft pink lip. A grand cathedral wedding may call for more dramatic and elegant looks, with an ornate updo and bolder lip color. We consider the look and feel of your ceremony and reception venues to ensure that everything blends together beautifully and creates a harmonious look in your photos.


12. Cultural Traditions & Wedding Themes

Last but not least, we take into account any cultural or religious traditions you may be observing at your wedding or reception. If you will be changing into various dresses throughout your wedding, we can create looks to match each one. If you will be wearing a traditional headdress, we can create a makeup look that complements it. Similarly, if you have chosen a specific theme for your wedding, we will reflect that in the makeup we select together.








So, whether you are getting married at high noon outside within a National Park this summer or inside a church building at 5:30pm in December, Empire Beauty Studios knows how to make you look your best. Schedule your preview appointment today and discover how much you can love your customized wedding look! Experience this signature process for yourself.


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