The 8 Best Makeup Products I Brought to Every Wedding in 2023
I’m at that age when everyone is either getting married, having babies, or quitting their jobs to Eat, Pray, Love their way around the world. While it’s fun to see everyone enter a new phase of life, this also equates to a lot of weddings and celebratory occasions. And after two years of postponed ceremonies and a slew of quarantine engagements…phew! I needed to be fully equipped for all of the back-to-back weddings on my social calendar this year, starting with what was in my makeup bag. (If I’m going to be spending my life savings on attending all of these events, I’m going to look good doing it!)
While many makeup products work great for everyday wear, weddings call for more specific features—think mascara that won’t smudge when you ‘happy cry’ and setting powder that can absorb sweat during those sweltering summer ceremonies. It’s also worth considering travel-sized beauty products you can take with you to destination weddings and bachelorette parties. Look for versatile options, like neutral eyeshadow palettes and simple lip colors that complement a range of different wedding guest dresses.
To help you prepare for all the nuptials that are still to come, I’m sharing a few of the must-have makeup items I couldn’t have made it through wedding season without. If you want your cheekbones to shimmer under the venue lights, I swear by the Bobbi Brown Highlighting Powder. Need something to make your look last all day? I love the Benefit Cosmetics 24-Hour Brow Setter and the NYX Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray.
Best for Outdoor Weddings
Chanel CC Cream Super Active Complete Correction SPF 50
Weddings were aplenty this spring and summer, so I turned to this tinted moisturizer for every outdoor ceremony. I love the fact that it’s infused with SPF 50, so I can rest assured that my skin is protected from the sun. I use it as my face foundation and the first step of my makeup routine–its moisturizing and illuminating formula sets the perfect base for the rest of my glam look. The best part is that a little goes a long way with this CC cream. All you need is a thin layer of product for a full-coverage look.
Price at time of publish: $55
Best Brow Tool
Benefit Cosmetics 24-HR Brow Setter Brow Gel with Lamination Effect
Never underestimate the power of good eyebrows! This clear gel easily shapes brows and locks them in place for up to 24 hours, making it a must for weddings that last all day and night. I’d especially recommend this for bridesmaids, as you’ll want your makeup to stay put for every photo op on the big day. I typically apply this after filling in my brows with a pencil applicator to polish the final look, but it’s also a great option for those who want to achieve a laminated eyebrow effect.
Price at time of publish: $24
Best for Long-Lasting Looks
NYX Professional Makeup Setting Spray Matte
Best Shimmer
BOBBI BROWN Highlighting Powder
For me, a great highlighter is the cherry on top of my makeup routine. I just love a little extra shimmer and shine! This Bobbi Brown highlighting powder has been my go-to for years because it adds an eye-catching pop without distracting from the rest of my look. I apply this to my cheekbones and the bridge of my nose for an added glow and radiant finish. I also love that this powder comes in a wide range of shades and is free of parabens and phthalates.
Price at time of publish: $52
Best Smudge-Free Formula
Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
This unique firm-hold tubing mascara formula is like something I’ve never seen before. Instead of smearing or running when it gets wet, the mascara comes off in fiber-like pieces that slide right off your lashes–you don’t even need soap or eye makeup remover to take it off at the end of the night! So when those happy tears hit as the couple exchanges their vows, you can trust that your look will stay intact (just bring the mascara in your purse for touch-ups).
Price at time of publish: $25
