Spain is a country full of contrasts and magic, a place that has captivated couples from all over the world with its diversity and cultural richness. From the dreamy coasts of the Balearic Islands and Ibiza to the volcanic and mysterious landscapes of the Canary Islands, every corner offers something unique.
If you're looking for a natural setting, the lush forests and cliffs of the Cantabrian region, in the north of Spain, are ideal for intimate ceremonies. On the other hand, Andalusia, with its warmth, joy, and traditions, provides an atmosphere full of emotion and character. And, of course, we cannot forget the vineyards of La Rioja, the golden beaches of the Mediterranean, or the medieval castles scattered across places like Segovia or Toledo.
But beyond the setting, there is an element that makes your wedding day truly unforgettable: your beauty.
I’m María Ávalos, a makeup artist and bridal stylist with over 10 years of experience. My work goes beyond weddings, as my versatility has led me to participate in editorial shoots, high-level events in the Spanish bridal sector, and audiovisual projects for television. This trajectory has given me a 360º vision that allows me to adapt to different environments, styles, and personalities.
When I work with a bride, my goal is not just to create a beautiful look but to capture her essence and transform it into an exclusive style. I enhance her natural beauty so that she feels like herself, confident, and radiant on such a special day. My mission is clear: to ensure every bride shines with her own light and that her image reflects perfectly who she is.
Preparation: beauty rituals before the big day
When planning a destination wedding, the journey begins long before you arrive at the venue, and the same applies to your skin and hair. They require care and attention weeks, even months in advance, to become your greatest allies on your wedding day.
Rather than thinking of isolated steps, I like to approach it as a self-care ritual. For your skin, it’s about nourishing it from the inside out. Staying hydrated, both with products enriched with hyaluronic acid and by drinking plenty of water, is key to achieving that radiant, healthy glow. Antioxidants also play a crucial role: foods rich in vitamin C or topical treatments are perfect allies for combating the oxidative stress caused by the whirlwind of wedding preparations.
For hair, consistency is essential. I recommend incorporating deep-repair masks into your routine once a week and using natural-bristle brushes to prevent breakage. One of my favorite tips is to give yourself a scalp massage with essential oils like rosemary, which not only stimulates the scalp but also reduces built-up tension.
And here’s a unique detail for destination weddings: the climate. Are you getting married in a humid location like Galicia or a windy beach in Ibiza? This will determine the final choices for products and techniques. For example, a bride I worked with, in the Canary Islands, opted for a relaxed look with natural waves, but we tailored her hair prep with anti-frizz products to ensure her hairstyle stayed flawless all day.
This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a process that connects you with yourself. This pre-wedding ritual will not only transform your skin and hair but also boost your confidence and tranquility.
A look that adapts to the magic of Spain
A destination wedding in Spain is not just a journey to a spectacular location; it’s also an opportunity to create a look that perfectly blends with the surroundings. Every corner of the country offers unique landscapes, and your makeup and hairstyle should harmonize seamlessly with them.
On the beaches of Ibiza or Formentera, where the sun shines brightly and the sea takes center stage, I recommend light, waterproof makeup. Natural-finish foundations, a touch of highlighter on the high points of the face, and golden eyeshadows that capture the daylight are ideal for this setting. Hairstyles, meanwhile, need to be as versatile as they are elegant: relaxed updos or half-up styles with loose strands work wonderfully, standing up to the breeze while maintaining freshness.
If your wedding is set in a vineyard in La Rioja or a rustic estate in Andalusia, the look shifts slightly to embrace the warmth of the environment. I love playing with earthy tones on the eyes and creating makeup that reflects the natural beauty of the landscape. For hair, bohemian braids adorned with tiny wildflowers add a romantic and relaxed touch, perfectly complementing the countryside atmosphere.
For a historic castle like those in Segovia or Toledo, where architecture and tradition play a central role, I lean toward more timeless looks. Classic lip colors, such as soft reds or nude mattes, paired with sleek low buns that exude sophistication, are perfect for these settings.
One thing I always prioritize, regardless of the setting, is the use of long-lasting products that can withstand Spain’s varying climatic conditions, whether it’s the humidity of the north or the heat of the south. My mission is to ensure that you feel comfortable and that your look remains flawless from the first "I do" to the final dance.
Each setting has its own charm, and my work focuses on enhancing your unique beauty while creating a look as special and memorable as the location you’ve chosen for your wedding.
Trends defining destination brides in 2025
2025 will be the year of authenticity and versatility, where every bride has the chance to reflect her unique personality in her bridal look. Destination weddings, with their magical settings, provide the perfect canvas to explore these trends, blending romanticism, natural beauty, and a modern touch.
Transformable looks continue to lead the way. Picture starting the day with a classic and elegant updo for the ceremony, which later transitions into relaxed, loose waves for the reception or party. This approach not only adds dynamism but also ensures comfort and freshness throughout the day.
In makeup, radiant and healthy skin will take center stage. Lightweight foundations and creamy textures that enhance the face's natural beauty, paired with touches of highlighter on strategic points like the cheekbones and inner corners of the eyes, will be key. Warm-toned eyeshadows, such as peach or copper, will be on-trend, while nude or pink lips during the day can be elevated with bordeaux, coral, or even a bold red for the evening.
Hair trends in 2025 embrace effortless romanticism. Low updos and bohemian braids will remain favorites, now complemented by unique accessories: personalized pins, minimalist headpieces, and preserved flowers that add a natural yet sophisticated touch.
For brides celebrating outdoor weddings in warm destinations, long-lasting and waterproof products will be essential. From foundations that withstand high temperatures to setting sprays that keep hairstyles flawless, these allies will ensure a perfect look in any weather condition.
Planning from abroad will also be key for destination brides in 2025. If in-person trials aren't possible, take advantage of digital tools to share your ideas with your stylist: video calls, inspiration boards, and clear communication are fundamental. A professional with experience in destination weddings can make all the difference, tailoring every detail to your style and chosen environment.
2025 brings an invitation to explore, customize, and shine in your own way. These trends go beyond fashion; they are an opportunity to tell your story through a look that will live on in your memories and photographs forever.
A finale that shines bright
Your wedding day is the culmination of a dream, the beginning of a new chapter, and the chance to celebrate your love story in a way that will be remembered forever. In a place as special as Spain, filled with magic and contrasts, my mission is to ensure that every detail of your look reflects your essence, your style, and the incredible journey that brought you here.
Beyond makeup and hairstyling, my commitment is to offer you peace of mind, confidence, and the assurance that you are in the hands of someone who truly understands what this day means to you. Because it’s not just about looking beautiful, it’s about feeling authentic, empowered, and absolutely radiant.
If you’re ready to take this step and need someone who not only shares your vision but elevates it to a level you never imagined, I’m here for you. It will be an honor to be part of your story, of that magic that only you can create.
Discover more about my work and how I can help you shine on your big day by visiting my website at www.mariaavalos.es and following me on Instagram at @mariaavalos._. Because you are already unique, and my passion is helping you show it to the world. Shine, dream, celebrate. The rest? Leave it to me.
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