The best make-up for brides: The big beauty brands have everything covered

Les 4 Ombres (in 224 Tisse Riviera), Chanel, £40

While some brides are happy to throw themselves into the hands of a professional on the big day, others prefer to do their own make-up, and the big beauty brands have everything covered – right down to a masterclass in false eyelash application.

It's worth booking a month or two before your wedding so you have time to practise at home, but any pre-wedding holidays or fake-tan sessions should be taken into account. A spritz of MAC's Fix + (from £8, maccosmetics.co.uk) will ensure your carefully-applied handiwork doesn't slide off before you say "I do".

Dior Addict Fluid Stick (in 338 Mirage)

£26, johnlewis.com

A delicate pink gloss with a sheen that's dewy rather than gluey, apply lightly and remove any excess with a fingertip.

Hypnose waterproof (in 01 Noir Hypnotic), Lancôme

£22.50, johnlewis.com

Tears are likely at some point on the big day, so waterproof mascara is a must; a basic black will blend in with most false eyelashes.

Perfectly Defined Gel Eyeliner (in 4 Steel Grey), Bobbi Brown

£18, bobbibrown.co.uk

Messing around with pots and brushes when you're all a-jitter is best avoided; instead, a more delicate pencil line can be built up gradually.

Les 4 Ombres (in 224 Tisse Riviera), Chanel

£40, 020-7493 3836

A slightly shimmering finish will sparkle in pictures; the delicate pastels in this palette are perfect for the main event, then you can build up smokiness when it's party time.

Illuminating Protective Primer, Tom Ford

£52, selfridges.com

A subtle glow will match your beaming smile – the super fine particles in this base mean you won't sparkle like a 'Twilight' vampire in the sun.