Hiring A Makeup Artist For Your Wedding: Is It Necessary?

There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to hire a makeup artist for your wedding. While hiring a professional can ensure you look your best in photos, it can also be expensive and may not align with your desired look. Doing your own makeup can be a great option if you feel confident in your skills and have the time to practice and prepare. It can also save you money and give you full control over your look. However, if you are unsure about how to create a long-lasting, bridal-inspired look, hiring a professional may be the best decision. They will know how to make your makeup look best in photos and can provide you with a stress-free, pampering experience on your big day. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, skill level, and personal preference.

Pros and cons of doing your own makeup

Doing your own makeup for your wedding can be a great way to save money and ensure that your makeup is done exactly how you like it. However, it can also be stressful and may not always be the most cost-effective option, especially if you need to purchase new products. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide whether to do your own makeup or hire a professional for your wedding day.

Pros of Doing Your Own Wedding Makeup:

• You will have full control over your look and can ensure there is no room for disappointment.
• It can save you money as you won't have to pay for a professional's services.
• You won't need to coordinate with an additional vendor or attend trials, giving you more time to focus on other aspects of your wedding.
• You will look and feel like yourself, as you will be doing your makeup in a style you are comfortable with.

Cons of Doing Your Own Wedding Makeup:

• If you are a novice or unsure of how to create a long-lasting bridal look, doing your own makeup may create more stress.
• Your makeup may not photograph well, especially if you are unaware of how certain products interact with flash photography.
• Depending on the products you already own or need to purchase, doing your own makeup may end up being more expensive than hiring a professional.
• DIY makeup may not be as long-lasting as professionally done makeup, especially if you don't use the right products.
• You may not have the skills to achieve a specific technical or special look.
• Doing your own makeup can add to the stress of your wedding day.
• If something goes wrong, you may not have the skills to fix it.
• You will need to devote time to practicing and preparing your makeup look in advance.
• You will need to ensure you have all the necessary products and tools, which can be costly.

Ultimately, the decision to do your own wedding makeup or hire a professional depends on your comfort level with doing your own makeup, your budget, and the amount of time you have to devote to practicing and preparing.

Hiring a professional makeup artist

Start with Referrals and Research:

Ask your friends, especially those who have recently tied the knot, for recommendations. Word-of-mouth referrals are often the most reliable way to find a skilled makeup artist whose style aligns with your vision. Browse their Instagram pages or websites to view their portfolios and past work. This will give you a good idea of their aesthetic and help you decide if it matches what you're looking for.

Gather Inspiration:

Before reaching out to potential artists, gather some inspiration for your bridal look. Collect photos from magazines, social media, or even screenshots of looks you admire. It's okay if you're not entirely sure what you want, but having some references will guide your conversations with the artist and make your trial run more productive.

Check Availability and Accommodate Your Entourage:

Before booking a trial, ensure the artist is available on your wedding date. Also, discuss the number of bridesmaids and family members who will need their makeup done. This will impact pricing, timing, and the number of artists required, so it's essential to have these details sorted early on.

Book a Trial:

Schedule your makeup trial as soon as you've found an artist whose work you admire and who is available on your big day. During the trial, be open to suggestions from the artist, especially if you don't have specific references. A good artist will guide you toward a look that complements your features and even your wedding color scheme.

Consider Timing and Logistics:

Schedule your trial for the same time of day as your wedding to see how the makeup wears throughout the day. Take photos from different angles to evaluate the look, and pay attention to how your skin reacts to the products. Ask the artist if they will come to you on the wedding day or if you need to go to them. If it's the latter, be sure to budget extra time for travel.

Trust Your Artist's Expertise:

Your wedding makeup should enhance your natural beauty. A good artist will recommend a look similar to your everyday style but amplified for the occasion and the camera. Remember, the camera doesn't pick up pigment like the naked eye, so don't be surprised if your artist suggests filling in your brows or using false eyelashes to ensure your features stand out in photos.

Shop Around, but Not Too Much:

Don't be afraid to meet with several artists before making your final decision. Makeup trials exist for this very reason. However, be cautious not to go overboard. With proper research and portfolio review, you should be able to find your perfect artist within a few consultations.

Makeup trials

Timing is Key

Schedule your makeup trial two to six months before the wedding. This ensures you've chosen your dress and accessories, and have a clear vision for your overall look and theme. It's also important to have your date and venue confirmed, as the location and season will influence your makeup choices. For example, a beach wedding in summer will call for a different look than a winter ceremony in a ballroom.

Research and Choose Your Artist Wisely

Select a makeup artist who specialises in bridal makeup and understands the importance of the day. Browse their portfolios, social media, and reviews to ensure their style aligns with the look you want. Communicate with them beforehand, sharing your ideas and inspiration, and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Prepare for the Trial

Before the trial, research and select inspirational looks that you can bring to your appointment. Choose models with similar features to you, as the makeup will appear differently on varying skin tones and eye colours. Also, consider the specific products and tools you want to be used, especially if you have sensitive skin. Arrive at the trial with clean skin and hair, and wear a white top similar to your wedding dress.

Be Open and Communicate During the Trial

During the trial, be open to your artist's expertise and guidance. They will ask questions about your preferences and may offer suggestions based on your dress, accessories, and wedding theme. Be sure to communicate what you like and don't like, and don't hesitate to speak up if you want changes. It's your day, and your artist wants you to feel your best, so be comfortable and honest with them.

Test the Look

After the trial, wear the complete makeup look throughout the day to see how it holds up. This is crucial as you'll be wearing it for an extended period on your wedding day. Note how the makeup wears and any adjustments needed, and be sure to share this feedback with your artist so they can make any necessary tweaks.

Additional Considerations

If you're considering doing your own makeup, carefully weigh the pros and cons. DIY wedding makeup gives you full control over your look and can save you time and money. However, it may add stress, especially if you're unsure how to create a long-lasting, bridal-inspired look. Practice is essential, and you'll need to devote time to research and preparation.

Whether you decide to do your own makeup or hire a professional, makeup trials are an excellent opportunity to experiment and fine-tune your wedding day look. It's your day to shine, so ensure you feel confident and beautiful from morning to night!

Makeup for destination weddings

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure, and ensuring your makeup is on point for the big day is an important part of the preparations. Here are some tips to help you achieve a stunning look, whether you're doing your own makeup or hiring a professional:

Choose the Right Makeup Artist

If you decide to hire a makeup artist, opt for someone with experience in destination weddings and travelling to your specific location. Ask about their travel plans and how they will transport their kit. It's also crucial to discuss their availability and ensure they can commit to your wedding date. Don't forget to do a trial run to ensure you're happy with their work and can provide specific feedback to achieve your desired look.

Plan and Prepare

Whether you're doing your own makeup or hiring a professional, planning is essential. Research the weather conditions at your destination and choose products accordingly. For example, extra powder is a must in hot and humid climates, and waterproof mascara is a must if rain is in the forecast. Practice your makeup look multiple times, and if you're doing it yourself, write down the steps, the amount of product used, and placement. This will ensure you're confident and prepared on the day.

Consider the Venue

Matching your makeup to the vibe of your venue can create a beautiful, cohesive look. For instance, a beach ceremony calls for soft, neutral tones, while a rooftop bar wedding could be the perfect opportunity to be bold and fashion-forward with your eyeshadow or lipstick.

Make it Photogenic

You'll want your makeup to look flawless in photos, so consider doing a test trial to see how it photographs. Ask a friend to snap some pictures after your trial run to check for any adjustments needed.

Indulge in Self-Care

Don't forget to pamper your skin in the days leading up to your wedding. Treat yourself to a facial or a massage to ensure your skin is glowing and happy.

Set Up a Get-Ready Space

When planning your wedding day, designate a space for you to get ready. Fill it with good lighting, mirrors, and the people you love. Add some flowers and a glass of champagne to set the mood and make it a joyful experience.

Have Products for Touch-ups

Ask your wedding planner or a member of the bridal party to keep your touch-up products close at hand. You'll want to be able to refresh your makeup throughout the day and night, especially after all those romantic kisses!

Remember, comfort is key. Choose a look that makes you feel amazing and ensures you can enjoy every moment of your special day without worrying about your makeup.

Makeup and skin care

Your wedding day is likely to be the most photographed day of your life, so it's important to consider your bridal beauty routine. Here are some tips to help you achieve a flawless and long-lasting makeup look for your wedding day:

Skin Care

Drinking plenty of water is crucial for achieving healthy, glowing skin. Aim for three litres of water per day in the weeks leading up to your wedding to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores. Establishing a good skincare regimen is also essential. Consider using a toner to reduce breakouts and a moisturiser to hydrate the skin. If you have dry skin, opt for a heavier night cream or oil.

Makeup Trials and Preparation

It is highly recommended to schedule a makeup trial with a professional artist or practice your desired look if you plan to do your own makeup. This will allow you to experiment with different styles and ensure that your final look is perfect for your big day. When choosing a makeup artist, ensure they have examples of their work that align with the look you want. For DIY brides, online tutorials and inspiration from celebrity red-carpet looks or makeup artists' Instagram pages can be a great source of ideas.

Choosing the Right Products

The type of foundation you select will depend on your skin type and the finish you desire. For oily skin, a matte foundation is suitable, while a satin or glowy finish is ideal for dry or combination skin. Opt for long-wearing formulas, especially if your wedding spans from daytime to nighttime. To ensure your makeup lasts all day, use a primer before applying your base products. Consider using a lightweight, hydrating moisturiser and an eye cream to prep your skin, and finish with a setting spray to prolong the wear of your makeup.

Application Techniques

When applying your makeup, ensure you are sitting in a well-lit area with natural light, as this will provide the most flattering lighting for your skin tone. Avoid heavy contouring, as this can look unnatural in photos. Instead, opt for a light hand when applying bronzer, blush, and other face products. If you want to add definition to your eyes, consider using false eyelashes, especially if you choose a natural style. Waterproof mascara is a must to prevent any tears from ruining your look.

Colours and Shades

When choosing colours for your eyes, cheeks, and lips, consider your skin tone and the colour of your wedding dress. Against a white or ivory dress, add a touch more blush than usual to avoid looking washed out. A bold red lip or a rose pink shade can also look stunning in bridal portraits. Avoid lip gloss, as it can appear too shiny in flash photography.

Touch-Ups

Finally, pack a touch-up kit with essential products like a foundation stick, pressed powder, lipstick, cotton buds, and blotting papers to ensure your makeup looks fresh throughout the day.

Remember, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident. If you're unsure about doing your own makeup or want to reduce stress, consider hiring a professional makeup artist. They can provide valuable expertise and help you achieve a long-lasting, camera-ready look.

Frequently asked questions