How to find the right bridal makeup artist to create your dream wedding look

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable of your life, and choosing the right makeup artist can make a big difference in how you feel and look. This is especially important for black brides or couples with melanin of all shades, so that you not only look but also look your best on your big day himself. That’s why theGrio consulted makeup artist Sisi Niké, known for her expertise with different skin tones and beauty content on Instagram, to share tips for choosing wedding makeup that’s both beautiful and also gives you a safe and timeless feeling.

With a background in chemical engineering and a passion for beauty, Niké’s journey into the beauty industry began when family members recognized her talent for makeup and adding style to everything she did. Although she worked in technology consulting, Niké began blogging to express her creativity.

“This was 2010, when blogging was just emerging; So many black women talked about how they do their makeup, how they do their hair, things like that,” Niké tells theGrio. “I literally just used it as a creative outlet because I had a very demanding bachelor’s degree in engineering. And then when I was in the company, I thought: “I want to be expressive here.”

Expression turned into entrepreneurship, and soon she was handling bookings for family weddings and eventually building a wide network of bridal clients in the New Jersey and New York area. Today, she has a successful beauty business with a diverse portfolio of national and international editorial work and clients, reminding Black women everywhere to trust their own journey and take a leap of faith to turn their ideas into reality.

While Niké’s personal story is inspiring, her expertise is especially useful for brides and married couples who need valuable advice on how to find a beauty professional they can trust.

Look for experiences with your skin type and tone

When choosing a makeup artist, Niké recommends paying close attention to their portfolio. “I always tell brides, if it’s not represented on their page, it’s because that’s not their strength,” she told theGrio. Representation matters, and it’s important to see makeup examples for skin tones and types that are similar to your own. “Choose not only black women’s skin, but also lighter, lighter shades, medium shades, darker, deeper shades, (and) different undertones. Make sure they can appeal to mature skin (as well as) younger skin because there’s (also) the mother of the bride (and) the mother-in-law,” she explained.

Beyond visual examples, Niké emphasizes the importance of cultural competence. “It’s so important to choose a makeup artist who knows your skin on a deeper level and a cultural level and its nuances,” she says. Your wedding photos are keepsakes that will last a lifetime. That’s why it’s important that your makeup artist can create a look that feels authentic.

“There’s nothing worse than looking bad on your wedding day,” Niké tells theGrio, pointing out that if the makeup isn’t done right, “it shows through in the way you smile.” That will be noticeable in the way you act on your wedding day.”

Know what you want – or don’t want

Brides don’t always know exactly what look they want for their big day, but Niké says there’s still a way to effectively communicate your preferences.

“If you don’t know what you want, you know images of what you don’t want,” she notes. Sharing inspiration photos, even ones that show styles you don’t like, helps artists guide you toward a look that feels right. “If you choose the right makeup artist, they should be able to help you work together to create a look that makes sense – and then achieve it based on what you don’t like,” she added.

Niké also encourages brides to think about the emotions they want their wedding look to evoke. “Think about how you want to feel,” she advises. Whether you want a timeless, elegant look or a bold, trendy Instagram look, your makeup should match the mood and message of your day.

Be considerate of your bridal party

It can be difficult to manage makeup costs for bridesmaids, family members, or others in the wedding party, especially if the bride has high expectations. While you can always encourage bridesmaids and the bridal party to dress up or cover the costs of an artist, Niké suggests finding a balance between your vision and the financial realities of your bridal party.

“If you’re one of those brides who says, ‘We’re going to Ibiza for a bachelorette party,’ you’re footing the bill somewhere,” she said, urging brides to be aware of the financial burden their wishes place on others could bring. “Remember that these are women who have their own lives and their own financial responsibilities,” she added. Whether you sponsor the cost in full or cover some of the makeup costs, a little relief can go a long way toward showing your appreciation.

Simplify your timeline and enjoy the moment

The wedding day itself can feel overwhelming as successive events and emotions run high. Niké encourages brides to simplify their schedules and create space for connection and calm. “Right after the ceremony, take time with your spouse — even if it’s just 10 or 15 minutes — whatever it is, to just process what just happened,” she tells theGrio, reminding herself of the importance it is to do this on their own wedding day. Taking a moment to pause together can make the day feel more personal and meaningful.

In addition, a realistic look at logistics can save a lot of stress. “Be honest with yourself about the schedule you create,” she advised, pointing out that overloading the schedule or cramming too many events into one day can cause unnecessary anxiety. “Make sure you plan your day to be stress-free,” she said.

Choose a professional – and trust them!

Sisi Nike brings not only artistry but also professionalism to her craft – encouraging brides and couples looking for a makeup artist to think about the uniqueness of their wedding day needs. “I am a makeup artist who knows what it means to be a wedding vendor. “I’m not just someone who does makeup,” she tells theGrio. “In this role, I truly advocate for brides and understand how much value I can bring to them on a day beyond the brush.”

If professional makeup is in your budget and you want to work with someone who can apply flawless makeup even under the stress and pressure of a wedding day, then take the time to find an artist who has been there before and is well versed in your needs. Whether it’s having the cultural competency to recognize how to care for brown skin of all shades or having a familiarity with Afro-diasporic customs (shout out to Nigerian Asoebi bridesmaids!) by having a make-up Choosing an artist who understands your vision, skin and culture, your wedding look can help you have the dream day you deserve.