Makeup Trials: A Bridesmaid's Guide To Looking Flawless

Bridesmaids typically do not need to have a makeup trial and can opt to do their makeup themselves. However, if they want a trial, they usually pay for it themselves. If the bride requests a trial for the bridesmaids, she pays for it. Makeup trials are important for the bride to test out and refine her desired look for the wedding day, and it is recommended to schedule a trial three to six months before the wedding.

Who pays for the makeup trial?

There is no definitive answer to the question of who pays for the bridal party's makeup trial, and it largely depends on the preferences and financial situation of the bride and her bridesmaids.

Bridesmaids Paying for Makeup Trials

Bridesmaids may pay for their makeup trials, especially if they are the ones who want or request the trial in the first place. This is often the case when the bride is already covering other costs for her bridal party, such as their gowns, parties, and other bridal-centric fees. Asking bridesmaids to pay for their makeup trials can help reduce the financial burden on the bride, who may already be facing high wedding costs.

Brides Paying for Makeup Trials

On the other hand, some brides choose to cover the cost of the makeup trial as a "thank you" gesture to their bridesmaids for supporting the wedding. This is a thoughtful way to show appreciation to the bridal party and can be especially helpful if the bridesmaids are already paying for other expenses, such as their gowns and parties.

Alternative Payment Options

There are also alternative payment options to consider. One possible solution is to split the cost of the makeup trials between the bride and her bridesmaids, going 50/50. This can ease the financial burden on both parties and make costs more manageable.

Communicating Payment Expectations

Regardless of who pays, it is essential to establish payment expectations early on and finalize the decision before the big day to avoid any surprises. Transparency is crucial, and both the bride and bridesmaids should be aware of the expected costs and their financial responsibilities.

It is worth noting that the cost of a makeup trial can vary depending on the makeup artist's experience and location, typically ranging from $50 to $200 or more. This expense should be considered when deciding who will pay for the bridal party's makeup trials.

Is a trial necessary?

The short answer is no. Bridesmaids typically do not have a makeup trial before the wedding day. If they want a trial, they can pay for it themselves. However, some brides may choose to pay for their bridesmaids' trials, especially if they want a particular look or style for their bridal party.

If a bridesmaid is having her hair and makeup done professionally on the day, a trial can be a good idea to ensure the desired look is achieved. It can also be a fun experience for the bridal party to do together. Trials can be an opportunity to test out different styles and colours, and to get to know the artist's personality and skill level.

If you are a bridesmaid and are unsure about whether to have a trial, it is a good idea to discuss it with the bride. She may be happy to pay for it, or there may be no expectation that you will have one. It is also worth considering the cost of the trial, as well as any travel expenses, and whether you feel comfortable forgoing a trial.

Ultimately, the decision to have a makeup trial as a bridesmaid is a personal one and will depend on various factors, including budget, time constraints, and the level of importance the individual places on their wedding day look.

When should you book a trial?

When it comes to booking a makeup trial, timing is everything. You'll want to give yourself ample time to test out different looks and make adjustments, but you'll also want to have a clear idea of your wedding dress, venue, and date.

Most experts recommend scheduling your makeup trial three to six months before your wedding day. This gives you a good amount of time to experiment with different looks and make any necessary changes. It's also a good idea to have your dress selected, as the style of your dress will influence the formality of your makeup. Knowing your venue and date will help you consider the specific conditions of your wedding day—for example, whether you'll be exchanging vows in the heat of summer or the dead of winter.

If you're planning on making any drastic changes to your hair, such as cutting or dyeing it, you may want to schedule a hair trial six months in advance to plan out the transition. Your final colouring should be done about two weeks before the wedding to let it settle but still be fresh for your big day.

If you're short on time or can't meet with your makeup artist in person, consider scheduling your trial on a day when you have an occasion to get glammed up, such as your engagement shoot or bridal shower. This way, you can test out your desired look and get to see how it all comes together.

How much does a trial cost?

The cost of a makeup trial for bridesmaids can vary depending on several factors, including location, complexity of the style, and the experience level of the artist. On average, a makeup trial can range from $50 to $200, with the average price being around $75. However, it is important to note that this cost is typically for the trial itself, and if you want a separate hair trial, that would incur an additional fee.

Some artists offer packages that include both the trial and the day-of makeup application, which can be more cost-effective. It is also worth mentioning that if the bride requests the bridesmaids to have a trial, it is customary for her or her parents to cover the cost. On the other hand, if the trial is something the bridesmaids want, they are usually expected to pay for it themselves.

The cost of a makeup trial can be a significant expense, especially when added to the other costs associated with being a bridesmaid. It is important for bridesmaids to communicate with the bride and the artist about their expectations and budget constraints to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Additionally, the location of the trial can also affect the price. If the artist needs to travel to a specific location, there may be additional travel fees. It is also common for artists to charge by the hour, so the longer the trial takes, the higher the cost may be.

It is worth noting that some artists may include the cost of the trial in their consultation appointment, while others may charge it separately. It is always a good idea to clarify the pricing structure with the artist before booking a trial to avoid any surprises.

How to prepare for a makeup trial?

How to Prepare for a Makeup Trial

Makeup trials are an important part of wedding planning, ensuring that you feel confident and relaxed on your big day. Here are some detailed steps to help you prepare for your makeup trial:

Be Clear About Your Vision:

Before your trial, take some time to gather inspiration and get clear on the look you want to achieve. Browse Pinterest, Instagram, or celebrity looks for ideas. Save or take screenshots of the images that resonate with you, and be prepared to share them with your makeup artist. It's also helpful to have an idea of what you don't want, so you can avoid any unwanted elements in your final look.

Bring Your Own Products:

If you have specific makeup products that you love and want to use on your wedding day, bring them with you to the trial. This could include a favourite foundation, lipstick, or any other products you feel comfortable with. Your makeup artist will be able to work with your products and ensure they are included in your final look.

Prepare Your Skin and Hair:

Arrive at your trial with a clean face, free of any makeup products. Continue your usual skincare routine leading up to the trial, as this will provide the best base for your makeup. If you are also having a hair trial, wash your hair the night before so it has time to regain its natural oils. Avoid using any styling products, but feel free to do some light taming with a straightener or curling iron if needed.

Wear the Right Outfit:

Choose an outfit for your trial that has a similar neckline to your wedding dress. This will give you a better idea of how your final look will come together. If possible, wear something white or off-white, similar to your wedding dress colour, to see how your complexion looks and photographs against it.

Bring Accessories:

Don't forget to bring any accessories you plan to wear on your wedding day, such as earrings, necklaces, veils, or other headpieces. This will help you see the complete look and ensure that your hair and makeup complement your accessories.

Take Notes and Photos:

During your trial, take notes on the products and techniques used, as well as the timing of the appointment. This will be helpful for recreating the look and planning your wedding-day schedule. Also, take photos of your makeup look in different lighting conditions, both inside and outside the salon, to see how it photographs.

Be Open to Adjustments:

Remember, the trial is a practice run, and adjustments can always be made. If there are elements you don't like or want to change, communicate this to your makeup artist. It's better to voice your opinion during the trial than to wait until your wedding day.

Plan Something Fun Afterwards:

Take advantage of your gorgeous makeup by planning something fun for after your trial. Go out for dinner, drinks, or a special date night. This will not only be a nice break from wedding planning but will also allow you to see how your makeup wears over time and in different settings.

By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your makeup trial and one step closer to feeling like your best self on your wedding day!

Frequently asked questions