No matter how much you love (or hate) wedding planning, you’ll likely find yourself stuck on a decision at some point. For me, that time was while I was planning my bridal beauty. Even though I write about fashion and beauty for a living, I felt an incredible amount of pressure to pick the perfect look.

After countless hours on Pinterest, reaching out to personal contacts, and conducting research, I ended up choosing a natural-inspired beauty look. I eventually got the answers I needed, but it was challenging.

Photo: Lapir0.

Photo: Wedding Bells, Photography: Chris Nicholls, Styling: Tara Williams, Hair: Justin German for Pantene/P1M.ca, Makeup: Michelle Rosen, Nails: Rita Remark, lead nail artist for Essie Canada.

The last thing a bride needs is another wedding-related challenge, so today I’m sharing a very special Q&A with you: 10 wedding beauty questions with Guerlain International Makeup Artist, Maxime Poulin. I’ve asked him to answer some of the bridal questions that stumped me and share his expert beauty advice for current and future brides.

Photo: Guerlain, Products Used For This Look – Primer: L’Or, Foundation: Terracotta Joli Teint, Highlighter: Precious Light, Powder: Météorites Light – Revealing Pearls of Powder, Bronzer: Terracotta Light, Eyes: Écrin 5 couleurs – Tonka Imperiale, Eye Pencil Jackie Brown, Felt Liner, Maxi Lash Mascara, Lips: La Petite Robe Noire Deliciously Shiny Lip Colour in 011 Beige Lingerie.

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1. What’s the difference between “bridal makeup” and “everyday makeup”?

MP: Bridal makeup differs from daytime makeup in the sense that it needs to be appropriate for both photos and for real life. It also needs to have more staying power than everyday makeup; you’ll likely need to add a few more steps in the prepping process to achieve this.

Found on: Wed Pics Blog , Photography: Cristina G Photography, Makeup: @tamaramakeup.

2. Many brides choose to wear false eyelashes on their wedding day. Do you recommend this? Why or why not?

MP: This is really a question of preference; big lashes make your eyes pop and appear larger, but if you haven’t worn them before, they may feel uncomfortable and overbearing. I recommend trying them before your wedding until you find the right shape, length, and thickness for you.

I also highly recommend a trial beauty look to test out lashes, new products, foundation, and new colors you’re trying out. A makeup trial ensures that you’re comfortable and that your makeup performs as you want it to.

Photo: Guerlain.

3. What trends are big for 2017 bridal beauty?

MP: 2017 bridal beauty is all about recreating the glow from within: a softly highlighted complexion and gently defined features. Blush and highlighters are defining points of 2017 bridal looks.

Photo: Guerlain.

4. If a bride is going to invest in a few new makeup products for her wedding, what items should she choose?

MP: You definitely want to splurge on a flawless complexion; invest in the perfect foundation and primer for your skin type. If you choose not to wear false lashes, you may want to consider purchasing a fresh mascara (nothing wears better than a brand new mascara!). I also recommend splurging on a luxe lipstick or powder that you won’t be ashamed to take out to use for touch-ups throughout the day.

5. What are the popular bridal manicure trends for 2017?

MP: Simple. Classic. It is all about almond shaped classic nails in ballerina beige pink, nude beige, or classic red.

Photo: Guerlain. Products Used For This Look – Primer: L’or, Foundation: Tenue de Perfection, Powder: Météorites Light Revealing Pearls of Powder, Bronzer: Terracotta 4 Seasons, Blush: Chic Pink, Eye shadow: Écrin 5 couleur L’Heure de Nuit, Lip Primer: Liplift Lip Primer, Lipstick: Rouge G 65, Lipliner 44.

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6. How does a bride make sure her makeup lasts all day?

MP: With the right skincare your makeup will last throughout the day. There are three essential items:

1. A lightweight primer to smooth the skin and hold makeup in place
2. The right foundation formula for your skin type to cover and even out skin tone
3. A setting powder for minimal touch-ups

7. How do you suggest a bride choose a makeup artist?

MP: Find someone you’re comfortable with and request a makeup trial. I recommend scheduling your trial(s) on days when you have events or dinners. You’ll get the opportunity to see friends and family, gauge how comfortable you are with the look, and get honest feedback. But remember: you are the one wearing it, so your opinion matters the most.

Photo: Guerlain.

Found on: Wed Pics Blog, Photography: House of Makeup.

8. What kind of makeup touch-ups should a bride watch out for on her wedding day?

MP: Powder for minimizing shine, lipstick/lipgloss, and concealer. I suggest choosing products with beautiful packaging so you don’t mind taking them out in front of guests.

9. What should a bride do if she’s having trouble deciding on her wedding day look?

MP: She should relax! Makeup should be fun. If she chooses a makeup artist with whom she connects well, they will be able to make it fun and achieve something that will match her personality. Don’t overthink everything; your makeup doesn’t have to match the church, the icing on the cake, the car, the venue, and your mom’s dress! Makeup should reflect you and how you feel on that special day.

Photo: Guerlain.

10. Any other wedding beauty tips or tricks for the Something Turquoise bride?

MP: Apply some highlighter to your decolleté, arms, and any other skin that is showing to ensure that you look glowing all over.

Drink a lot of water and start a skincare routine eight months before your wedding. If you can fit it in your budget, visit a facialist to assess your skin needs and concerns.

Most of all, enjoy all the planning and be so happy! This is the most beautiful day of all.

Photo: Guerlain.

Photo: Guerlain.