A great way to trim your wedding budget is to do your own makeup. Plus, who knows your makeup style better than you? Check out these great tips for applying your own makeup:

• Get a makeover. Venture to your local department store and enjoy a free makeover at one of the many makeup counters. When you find what you like, pay close attention to their methods so you can duplicate them later. Ask questions as they are applying the products. If you tell them what you are doing they may be more willing to offer advice.
• Buy quality cosmetics. Buy all of the same cosmetics that were used in your makeover. Make sure they are good, long-lasting products. And don’t forget the waterproof mascara.
• Practice, practice, practice! The only way to improve your makeup artistry is to practice regularly. Once you get in the groove you’ll have no problem on the actual day of your wedding.
• Enlist the help of a friend. Do you have a friend whose makeup always looks flawless? Ask her for help. Invite her over prior to the wedding to help you during one of your practice runs. She can lend her expertise on the day of the wedding as well. I did this and it worked out perfectly; my friend was wonderful.
• Take your time. Give yourself plenty of time on the day of the wedding. This way, in case you do make a mistake, you’ll have plenty of time to correct it and start again.
• Use a little more than usual, but not too much. You’ll want to wear a little more makeup than usual for the sake of your wedding photos, but you don’t want to look unnatural or unlike yourself.