Expert Tips for Perfect Destination Wedding Hair and Makeup

Destination weddings are stunning and memorable, but planning hair and makeup in a different climate or country requires special preparation. From choosing weather-proof styles to packing essential products, here’s everything you need to know for a flawless bridal beauty look at your destination wedding.

1. Choose Weather-Resistant Hair and Makeup Styles

Destination weddings often come with unique climate challenges—whether it’s tropical humidity, ocean breezes, or dry mountain air. Choose hair and makeup styles that can stand up to the elements.

• For Humid Locations (Tropical or Beach): Opt for updos or braided styles that keep hair secure, and go for waterproof, long-wear makeup products to prevent smudging or melting.
• For Windy Coastal Areas: A low bun, chignon, or half-up style is ideal for keeping hair manageable and camera-ready.
• For Dry Climates (Desert or Mountain): Choose moisturizing makeup products and hydrating hair products to keep your skin and hair from looking dry or brittle.

Pro Tip: Consult with your stylist about your wedding location so they can recommend styles that will work best in that climate.

2. Schedule a Hair and Makeup Trial Early—And Bring Inspiration Photos

If possible, schedule a hair and makeup trial in your hometown and again once you arrive at your destination. Here’s why this can be invaluable:

• Hometown Trial: Use your local trial to test your look, discuss preferences, and experiment with styles you might want.
• Destination Trial: Once at your wedding location, do a quick run-through with your stylist, especially if using a local artist, to see how products hold up in the destination climate.
• Bring Inspiration Photos: Have pictures of your dress, accessories, and venue to help your stylist understand your vision.

Pro Tip: Take pictures of your trial look in natural light to get a realistic sense of how it will appear in photos.

Check out this blog post for tips on pre-wedding trials!

3. Pack Must-Have Products for Touch-Ups

Even with long-wear products, touch-ups are essential for destination weddings. Create a beauty touch-up kit with these essentials:

• Setting Spray: A quality setting spray will keep makeup in place and refresh it throughout the day. The one we always have on hand!
• Blotting Papers: These are perfect for reducing shine in humid or warm environments without adding more makeup.
• Mini Hairspray or Hair Serum: Use hairspray to keep flyaways in check, and a serum or oil for dry or frizzy hair. Our favorite here!
• Lipstick and Powder Compact: Keep your lip color and any needed powder touch-ups close at hand.

4. Choose Products with SPF (and Make Sure They’re Flash-Free)

Sun protection is a must for outdoor weddings, especially in tropical or sunny locations. However, some SPF products can cause flashback in photos, which creates an unflattering white cast on the skin.

• Choose SPF Without Flashback: Look for products tested for photo-friendliness, such as those with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in lower concentrations.
• Use SPF Setting Spray: Some setting sprays include SPF, giving you a lightweight protective layer without layering on additional products.

Pro Tip: Apply a lightweight, photo-safe SPF lotion as your base layer and top it with an SPF-infused setting spray for extra protection.

5. Hydrate, Prep, and Prime for a Long-Lasting Look

Preparation is key for long-lasting makeup. Prepping your skin and hair with hydration and priming products will make a big difference, especially in extreme climates.

• Hydrate: Use a hydrating primer and facial mist to keep skin fresh in dry or hot climates. For hair, apply a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant to avoid frizz or dryness.
• Prime: Invest in a quality makeup primer to keep foundation in place, and consider a mattifying primer for oily skin in humid climates.
• Plan for Hair Prep: If your destination has dry air, deep-condition your hair a few days before, and if it’s humid, use anti-frizz products.

6. Work with a Local Beauty Team—or Bring Your Own

Hiring a local stylist has perks, as they’re familiar with the climate and know which products perform best. However, if your budget allows, bringing a trusted stylist can ensure your look turns out exactly as you want.

• Benefits of a Local Stylist: Local artists understand the destination’s climate and are likely to have experience with destination weddings, which is helpful if you’re new to the area.
• Bringing Your Own Stylist: You get the benefit of doing a trial local to where you live and then can bring the team out for your wedding day. If you need to do a couple of trials, them being local to you makes it much more convenient.

Pro Tip: Check with your stylist about destination travel and logistics if they’re traveling with you to ensure a seamless experience.

7. Plan for a Touch-Up Station at the Reception

Consider setting up a touch-up station at the reception venue to keep your look fresh throughout the evening. This can be as simple as a small table with essential beauty products for you and your bridal party.

• Essentials for the Touch-Up Station: Lipstick, powder, blotting papers, and a hairbrush are must-haves.
• Assign a Bridesmaid or Friend: Have someone designated to remind you to touch up or help with any adjustments.
• Portable Touch-Up Bag: If a station isn’t an option, pack a portable kit with the basics and keep it nearby.

With thoughtful preparation, the right products, and styles that suit the destination climate, your hair and makeup will be flawless on your wedding day. From packing your essentials to choosing weather-resistant styles, this guide has you covered for a stunning destination wedding look.

 

Have questions about planning the perfect beauty look for your destination wedding? We’re here to help!

Inquire with us here or email us directly (info@elwynnandcass.com) to start planning your flawless wedding look!