I’m a Bridal Makeup Artist—5 Trustworthy Drugstore Staples I Use on My Clients’ Big Day

June 28, 2025 / Swedan Margen /

Welcome to Drugstore Heroes, a monthly series in which we spotlight the often-overlooked and underhyped drugstore beauty products that industry experts count on. We’re asking tastemakers, from editors to content creators and even celebs, to share their top recommendations for affordable yet effective products. Get ready to see the best of drugstore beauty, period.

(Image credit: Jamie Brown)

For many people, their wedding day is one of the, if not the, most important and high-stakes beauty moments of their lives. When else do you throw a massive celebration that takes months or sometimes years to plan? When else is an event attended by every important person in your life? When else are you *that* photographed? It’s not the time for flaking, smudging, feathering, or any other makeup meltdown.

Whether you’re working with a professional makeup artist or doing it yourself (yes, it’s possible), it’s important to use only fail-safe and long-lasting products. You know, the ones that will withstand sweating, teary eyes, high-res photos… You name it. Surprisingly, some of the best wedding-proof makeup products can be found at the drugstore. Yes, really. Brielle Pollara, a celebrity, editorial, and bridal makeup artist, is proof of that. Below, she shares the five most reliable and budget-friendly wedding makeup products in her pro kit.

Brielle Pollara, celebrity, editorial, and bridal makeup artist.

How often do you use drugstore makeup products on your celebrity and/or bridal clients?

I use drugstore products more often than people may think. Although in my kit there are a lot of high-end staples, there are some drugstore products that I swear by, especially for complexion and lips. It all really depends on what products can perform best under lights, cameras, and all-day wear. Regardless of the price tag, if something is tried-and-true, I’ll use it.

What would you say to someone who thinks drugstore makeup products can’t perform as well as luxury ones, especially when it comes to a big day like one’s wedding?

I would tell them that price doesn’t always equal performance. There are drugstore products that easily outperform some luxury ones. For a big day like a wedding, it’s more about how the product wears on the skin and photographs than the branding on the bottle or the price tag. If it’s in my kit, it’s because I’ve tested it thoroughly and it works, not just because it’s expensive.