Versatile, thorough, elegant, professional, friendly
Budget realistically. Do research with actual vendors before setting your budget rather than following the 'suggested spend' in bridal magazines. They are often so wildly off the mark, you will be left disappointed and short of budget where you need it most!
Typically my brides book me just after their venue and photographer and secure the date. We tend to have a practice run quite early on to really get the best idea of what we are doing. ~I'm happy to talk via skype/on the phone first if a couple want to get to know me before a trial also
The smiles I get when the bride sees herself in the mirror after I complete her make-up.
Take care of your skin. Not just in the week or two before the wedding, at the very least 6 months before.
I'm super organised and very calm, I don't faff and I can politely ward off people around her who are feeding her nerves.
Get yourself a good makeup and hair artist!