(Beauty Report Card)

The 10 Makeup Products I’m Packing For My Destination Wedding Guest Look

What's in my bag.

April 6, 2024

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After months of anticipation, I’m just a few days away from hopping on a plane to Mexico City to attend my first-ever destination wedding. The couple graciously provided dress codes and mood boards for each event during the three-day affair, leaving me more than ready to get dolled up and go all out for the festivities. Think full-length satin gowns, stacked heels, and lots of gold jewelry. Now that all of my outfits are sorted and ready to be packed up, I can assemble the destination wedding guest makeup essentials that will complete each look.

My go-to beat is pretty minimal: a glowy, natural base (I often just use a primer), glossy lids, bold blush, and my signature deep red lip. For special occasions, I level up the look with a few simple but impactful changes. First, layering a skin tint and/or concealer over the primer to round out my base, then swapping the eye gloss for a bold eyeshadow, and finally adding a dramatic coat (or three) of blue mascara. With the anticipated heat, I’ll lock it all in with a heavy-duty setting spray.

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As I prep and pack (fingers crossed I can get everything into a carry-on suitcase), take a peek into the products that have earned a spot in my travel makeup bag.

Danessa Myricks

Glow Serum

$34

This glowy, nourishing primer is the perfect product a natural-looking base.

Ami Colé

Skin-Enhancing Tint

$32

I apply this skin tint as a concealer to even out my areas of concern, including the under eyes, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation.

Surratt

Expressioniste Brow Shaping Pomade

$35

I was initially skeptical about the shape of this brush applicator, but it’s quickly become a staple in my routine because it locks my brows into place for a laminated look.

Violette

Yeux Paint in Dieu Bleu

$31

I love cobalt blue eyeshadow and this liquid formula is it. I plan to pair my head-to-toe baby blue wedding day outfit with a wash of color on my lids.

Milani

Stay Put Matte Lip Crayon in Postgame

$10

I use this lip crayon on my eyes exclusively. The pretty fuchsia shade called “Postgame” pairs perfectly with my pink-accented welcome party dress.

Colourpop

BFF Mascara in Blue Ya Mind

I don’t wear mascara often but when I do, it’s cobalt blue. I’m new to this particular formula and very much into the lift, length, and color payoff.

Glossier

Cloud Paint in Spark

$22

Spark is a perfect blend of my favorite shades, Haze and Dawn. I used to mix the two manually, but now I can get the same sun-kissed flush with half the work.

Tower 28

SuperDew Highlighter

$18

This clear balm offers the perfect amount of shine on the high points of my face and also works as a base for a glossy lid look.

Topicals

Slick Salve

$16

Out of the many lip treatments on the market, this one is my favorite. It looks (and feels) great on its own, and it’s even better paired with a dark lip liner.

Huda Beauty

Power Bullet Matte Lipstick Mini

$12

A matte burgundy lip is my eternal signature look. This mini will live in my travel bag moving forward.

MILK MAKEUP

Pore Eclipse Matte Setting Spray Mini

$24

I usually stick to setting sprays with a dewy finish, but this skin-smoothing, pore-blurring option will keep me photo-ready through the weekend.