Blush can make you look awake and healthy, which is why it's so important to apply it properly. Other tricky parts about blush include choosing the right shade and the right type. Remember, the goal is to look like a blushing bride and not a clown bride. So where do you start in the world of blushes?

Make Your Apples Shine

Blush should be applied to the apples of your cheeks, but you can also extend the color around your temples too depending on your preference. The idea behind blush is to create a natural flush on your face, so it should be a light airy application.

In order to get this look, experiment with your foundation. Some makeup artists apply foundation first and then the blush, but you can also reverse the steps, which can give you a more natural look.

The type of brush you use also matters. There are dome-shaped, tapered and natural hair brushes. Whichever you choose, make sure that it's a medium size and not too small, because smaller brushes will concentrate the blush color too much. However, depending on what type of blush you choose, you might not even need a brush for application. You just need to use the tips of your fingers for creams and gel formulas and move in a circle motion on the apples of your cheeks.

Blush with Stay Power

There are several types of blushes: powder, liquid (tints, stains and gels), cream (sticks, pots and tubes) and shimmers. You might already have a preference, but each type is designed for a specific skin type.

Powder Blush

Powder is functional for all skin types, but if you have oily skin, it's particularly perfect for you. Because the powder form will make the blush denser, it will have long-lasting color.

Liquid Blush

Liquid blushes include tints, stains and gels. Makeup artists vouch for these options claiming that the skin absorbs the color and create the most natural look. Although these types stay well in high heat, you have to apply them quickly before they dry and become streaks of color on your face. These liquid blushes are best for oily skin. If you have dry skin, the liquids will emphasize and cause more dry skin.

Cream Blush

Dry-skinned gals, listen up! Cream blushes are the best type for you, because they create a dewy look. If you want a fresh, moisturized face, use cream blushes in sticks, pots and tubes. Unlike the liquid blushes, these are more user-friendly when it comes to blending, but you still need to watch you don't cake it on. For those with oily skin, this can cause you to look too shiny.

Shimmer Blush

Shimmers help give a gleam to your cheekbones, so if you're having an evening wedding, this will make you look luminous. Shimmers come in sticks and powders, but they should only be used to highlight your cheekbones and maybe the inner corner of your eyes (a great tip from makeup artist, Carmindy from "What Not to Wear"). The shimmer can be layered on top of your regular blush too.

Pinks, Peaches, Plums, Oh My!

Now you know how to apply your blush and which type to pick, but the important decision is choosing the right color. With so many shades, it can become overwhelming and you might have to step into uncharted make-up territory.

Did you know that the best blush color is actually the one closest to your skin tone? The reason for this is you want to look flushed not overheated. In general, remember that darker skin tones will benefit from burgundy or wine color while fair skin tones should choose pink hues. If you're skin is medium, choose a shade between the pink and burgundy color. Regardless of your skin tone and how experience you are with make-up, it always helps to see the blush on. The best way to choose the right blush shade is to experiment with several ones before deciding.

Now doesn't blush seem so simple? With the tips and application advice, you will be able to master the blushing bride look on your special day. Just remember to choose the right type of blush for your skin type and the right shade for your skin tone, and you will be a sight for sore eyes.

--Marina Hanes