8 Must-Know Hair & Makeup Artists in Northern Virginia for Your Wedding Day
Your wedding day look should feel like the most elevated, glowing version of you. Whether you're going for soft romantic waves, a clean updo, bold lips, or a dewy natural glow, the right hair and makeup artist is key to bringing your vision to life—and making sure it lasts from first look to final dance.
As a wedding planner who serves couples across Charlottesville, Richmond, DC, and Northern Virginia, I've had the privilege of working with some of the best beauty pros in the region. Below, I’m sharing a few of my favorite bridal hair and makeup artists in Northern Virginia—true artists who consistently show up on time, deliver stunning results, and treat every bride with the care they deserve.
1. Blush Away Makeup, LLC – Aldie, VA
📍 blushaway.com
With over 20 years of experience, Finn and her team specialize in enhancing your natural beauty with a personalized, skin-first approach. Brides love her calming presence and thoughtful consultations.
⭐ Known for: Radiant natural glam, pre-wedding skincare prep
2. Carla Pressley Hair & Makeup – DMV Area
📍 carlapressley.com
Carla is an award-winning artist with experience in fashion, film, and television. She’s also a fierce advocate for inclusive beauty—offering expert styling across all hair textures and skin tones.
⭐ Known for: Editorial polish, diverse expertise, calming energy
3. Yisell Santos Beauty
📍 yisellsantosmakeup.com
With a background in both glam and bridal work, Yisell brings Hollywood red carpet vibes to wedding mornings. Her work is classic, confident, and flawless—just like her energy.
⭐ Known for: Timeless glam, long-wear makeup, cheerful professionalism
4. Updos for I Dos – Serving VA, MD, DC
📍 updosforidos.com
A team favorite for larger wedding parties, Updos for I Dos delivers a seamless on-location experience with transparent pricing and beautiful results.
⭐ Known for: Scalable team, punctual service, fresh romantic styles
5. Modern Bridal Studio – Alexandria, VA
📍 modernbridalstudio.com
Located in Old Town Alexandria, this studio offers everything from hairstyling to makeup to spray tans. Perfect for brides looking for a one-stop shop for bridal beauty prep.
⭐ Known for: Full-service beauty packages, modern aesthetic
6. Makeup by Ivett – DMV Area
📍 mubyivett.com
Ivett provides a luxury beauty experience that’s soft, romantic, and completely personalized. She’s known for her gentle hand and artistic precision.
⭐ Known for: Ethereal glow, lash and liner perfection, luxury touch
7. Society 11:11
📍 society1111.com
A modern collective of stylists and artists who deliver on-trend looks with a laid-back, supportive vibe. Their team brings over a decade of combined experience and a strong commitment to inclusivity.
⭐ Known for: Diverse styling expertise, cool-girl glam, polished natural looks
8. Best Foot Forward (BFF Beauty) – Arlington, VA
📍 bffshoerepair.com
More than just a quirky name, BFF Beauty is a go-to for brides looking for skincare-forward makeup and polished hair. They also offer pre-wedding grooming services for both brides and grooms.
⭐ Known for: Custom skincare prep, inclusive services, team flexibility
Final Thoughts
Choosing your beauty team is about more than just stunning photos (though that’s part of it!). It’s about surrounding yourself with professionals who make you feel confident, calm, and completely yourself.
If you’d like help coordinating hair and makeup trials or adding beauty services to your planning package, let’s chat. I’m always happy to make personal introductions and help you build a wedding day dream team you love.
