Veils date back for many centuries. Traditions vary, but a veil was often a sign of purity and usually only worn by those of decent social standing. It was associated with sacred religious objects that were also kept behind a veil. A bride behind a veil was through to have something sacred about here.
Veils may or may not cover a bride’s face. There is some confusion here as the words for a head covering can also be understood as a veil to cover the face, much as a scarf is something that can be either worn around the neck or around the top of the head. Modern brides might wear cover their face with thin material, or they might wear the same material on the top of their head. Either is called a veil.
We might joke that a veil covering the bride’s face prevents the need for makeup. But of course either the veil is removed as part of the ceremony, or else the bride isn’t using it to cover her face. Nonetheless the veil should be taken into account when considering the makeup.
The last thing you ever want is the veil interfering with the makeup. A light veil over the face shouldn’t do this, and neither should any veil worn well above the head. It seems best to position the veil across the crown of the head rather than attach it at the nape of the neck; brides just seem to get better results this way. It is also better to fit the veil with loops and secure it with bobby pins as securing with a comb tends to be uncomfortable over a longer period of time. This is not usually noticed at a brief fitting, but it will be an inconvenience on the actual wedding day.
Photographers can find veils something of a nuisance; just imagine a long veil on a windy day. As with anything on the wedding day it is good to consider how things will look in the photos afterward. It is also good to consider problems like the veil getting caught on something. Nonetheless we understand the appeal of a long veil which does suit some brides and their dresses very well.
Talk to the makeup artist about your veil and dress plans. You should have a photo of your dress for the makeup artist to consult; and you can often bring the veil itself as this is usually the first part of the dress completed. It should be possible to work out suitable makeup for any bride’s situation.