Journal · Destination weddings · Switzerland
Destination wedding hair and makeup: Miriam’s castle wedding in Switzerland
My first trip to Switzerland was for a destination wedding, and honestly, what a way to discover the country! In fact, I had the pleasure of creating Miriam’s custom bridal hair and makeup for her castle wedding near Zurich. Below, here’s how we built her look, from airbrushed skin to a high-fashion updo crowned with a rose, plus my advice for planning your own destination wedding hair and makeup.
By Corrie Elle, founder and lead makeup artist · Updated October 2026 · 6 min read
The short version
- Miriam chose airbrush makeup with a soft neutral smoky eye, crimson lips and a touch of colour on the cheeks.
- Meanwhile, her high-fashion updo was finished with an oversized rose, echoing the rose gardens at the castle.
- For a destination wedding, plan your trial at home first, then let your artist travel with a complete kit.
- In addition, climate, travel time and your schedule all shape the products and the timeline we choose.
Destination wedding hair and makeup for Miriam
The wedding took place at a picturesque castle among the cobblestone streets of Zurich. Since the venue was straight out of a fairy tale, Miriam wanted a bridal look fit for a princess. Fortunately, she knew exactly what she loved.
First, she selected airbrush makeup, paired with a high-fashion updo. Then she added one beautiful detail: an oversized rose in her hair, which was in perfect harmony with the rose gardens on the castle grounds. Best of all, Miriam got to marry her prince on a beautiful sunny day. Once again, congratulations, Miriam!
Miriam’s destination wedding hair and makeup, step by step
Every element of her look was custom, so that it suited her features, her style and the romance of the venue.
01
Airbrushed skin
First, I used airbrush makeup for a light, seamless base that looks like real skin and stays fresh through a long day of photos.
02
Soft neutral smoky eye
Next, I created a soft smoky eye in neutral tones, so her eyes looked defined without competing with a bold lip.
03
Crimson lips
Then I chose a crimson wedding lipstick, which gave the look its glamour and tied in beautifully with the colour of the roses.
04
A touch of colour
After that, a hint of colour on the cheeks added warmth and balanced the deep lip.
05
High-fashion updo
Finally, I swept her hair into a voluminous, high updo and placed an oversized rose at the side, which made the whole look feel romantic yet polished.
Wedding hair with flowers for a destination wedding
Fresh flowers are one of my favourite ways to tie your hair to your venue. For that reason, these are the options I suggest most often.
Bold and romantic
One statement bloom
- An oversized rose or peony, just like Miriam’s
- Placed at the side of an updo, or alternatively a low bun
- Secured with pins, so that it stays put all day
Soft and natural
Small scattered blooms
- For instance, baby’s breath or spray roses woven through the hair
- Lovely with braids as well as loose waves
- Also easy to match with your bouquet
Lasting and travel-friendly
Floral accessories
- Silk flowers or a jewelled pin, especially in heat
- No wilting, even after a long day
- Besides, they pack safely in your carry-on
Using fresh flowers abroad? In that case, ask your local florist to prepare an extra bloom for your hair, then keep it cool until the last moment.
Planning destination wedding hair and makeup
A wedding abroad needs a little more planning, but it’s absolutely worth it. So, here’s how I recommend preparing. For another trip abroad, see the Ethiopian bridal makeup we created in Harar.
01
Book early
First, contact your artist as soon as you set your date, since travel needs to be arranged around your schedule.
02
Do your trial at home
Next, book your bridal trial (see our bridal packages) before you leave, so we can perfect your hair and makeup with your accessories in hand.
03
Think about the climate
Then consider the weather at your destination. For example, heat and humidity call for long-wear products, while cooler air needs extra hydration.
04
Share your timeline
After that, send your schedule, venue details and the number of people getting ready, so we can plan the morning calmly.
05
Pack the essentials
Finally, pack a small touch-up kit with your lipstick, blotting papers and a few pins, especially if you’ll move between locations.
Destination wedding hair and makeup: your questions
For more real weddings and bridal looks, follow us on Instagram.
Do you travel for destination weddings?
Yes. We’ve travelled for weddings and photoshoots abroad, including Switzerland and Ethiopia. However, travel is quoted separately, based on your location and schedule.
Should I do my hair and makeup trial before I travel?
Yes, ideally. That’s because a trial at home lets us test your look with your dress details and accessories, so the wedding morning abroad is calm and predictable.
Can I wear fresh flowers in my hair at a destination wedding?
Absolutely. Ask your florist for an extra bloom, keep it cool, and add it at the very end. Alternatively, in very hot weather, silk flowers are a reliable option.
Is airbrush makeup good for a destination wedding?
Yes, it’s a great option. After all, airbrush makeup is light, long-wearing and available in waterproof formulas, which help in heat, humidity and long days of photos.
Planning a wedding abroad? Let’s create your look.
Tell us your date, your destination and how you picture your look. Then we’ll plan your trial at home and quote travel for your wedding, wherever it takes place.