Booking Your Wedding Makeup Artist: A Step-By-Step Guide

Booking a makeup artist for your wedding is an important part of the planning process. It can be a nerve-racking experience, putting your appearance on your big day in the hands of a stranger. To find the right makeup artist, you should start by asking for referrals from friends and checking out their Instagram pages and online reviews. It's also a good idea to gather photos that speak to your desired look and discuss your vision with the artist upfront. You should book your makeup artist as early as possible, with some sources recommending booking around 9-10 months in advance. This will ensure availability and give you time to do a trial or two to find the perfect look.

How to find a makeup artist whose style suits your own

Booking a makeup artist for your wedding can be a daunting task, especially if you are unsure about your desired wedding day look. Here are some tips to help you find a makeup artist whose style suits your own:

Start with Research and Recommendations

Begin your search by asking for recommendations from friends, relatives, or recently married acquaintances. You can also seek advice from professionals in the wedding industry, such as coordinators and photographers, who can provide valuable insights and suggestions. Utilise the internet by searching for "best bridal makeup artists" in your location and exploring social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Follow relevant hashtags, such as #BridalMakeupArtists and #WeddingMUA, to discover artists' portfolios and connect with them directly.

Evaluate their Portfolio

When examining a makeup artist's portfolio, look for versatility and adaptability. Seek out artists who have worked with brides of different ages, skin tones, and styles. Pay attention to the calibre of their work, including colour selection, overall finish, and blending techniques. Assess whether their style aligns with your taste and vision for your wedding day look.

Schedule a Trial Makeup Session

Booking a trial makeup session with your chosen artist is crucial. This allows you to experience the envisioned bridal look and ensure it aligns with your expectations. Bring reference photos, your wedding gown, and accessories to the trial for a comprehensive evaluation. Provide constructive feedback to the artist, clearly communicating what you like and what you would like to change.

Ask the Right Questions

When meeting with potential makeup artists, ask about their experience, background, and the products they use. Inquire about their hygiene and sanitation practices, especially in the context of COVID-19. Discuss your desired level of service and confirm whether they will be the one providing the makeup services on your wedding day. Ask about their availability and contract details, including services, costs, payment terms, and cancellation policies.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, choose a makeup artist whose personality and working style resonate with you. Opt for someone who makes you feel comfortable, understands your vision, and boosts your confidence. Trust your instincts and select an artist who not only showcases talent and experience but also makes you feel beautiful and confident.

Remember, finding the right makeup artist for your wedding day may take some time and effort, but by following these steps, you'll be well on your way to looking and feeling your best on your special day.

When to book a makeup artist for your wedding

Booking a makeup artist for your wedding is an important task. It is recommended to start looking for a makeup artist for your wedding around 6-12 months before your wedding date. This is because makeup artists with good reviews tend to get booked very quickly.

You should start by asking for recommendations from friends and family and looking at reviews and portfolios online. Once you have found a few potential artists, you should contact them to discuss your wedding date, the number of people who will need their makeup done, and the artist's availability for a trial. It is important to do a trial with the artist before booking them for your wedding to ensure that you are happy with their work and that they understand your vision for your wedding day look. The trial should be done around 1-2 months before the wedding so that you have an idea of what you want and can make any necessary changes.

When booking a makeup artist, it is important to ask about pricing, packages, and payment methods. Some artists may require a deposit to secure your booking, so it is good to clarify this in advance. It is also a good idea to ask about the products they use and whether they are suitable for your skin type and photography.

Overall, it is crucial to start looking for a makeup artist early, do your research, and ask the right questions to ensure that you are happy with your choice and that your wedding day vision is achieved.

How to prepare for a makeup trial

Booking a makeup artist for your wedding can be a daunting task. It is important to select an artist who can bring your vision to life and enhance your natural beauty. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your makeup trial and ensure that your wedding day look is everything you dreamed of:

Schedule your trial at the right time:

It is recommended to schedule your makeup trial 3-6 months before your wedding. This will give you enough time to make any necessary changes and finalize your wedding day look. Some brides also choose to schedule their trial closer to other bridal events such as their engagement shoot or bridal shower, so they can make the most of the trial.

Do your research and gather inspiration:

Before your trial, spend some time thinking about your desired look. Consider your personal style, the theme of your wedding, and how you normally wear your makeup. Browse through magazines, social media, and Pinterest to find inspiration and create a vision board. Look for models with similar features to yours, as the makeup will appear differently on various skin tones, hair colours, and eye colours.

Communicate your vision:

During your trial, communicate your vision clearly to your makeup artist. Discuss the specific elements of the look that you like and don't like. Be open to suggestions and feedback from the artist, as they are professionals who can advise you on what will suit your features best.

Establish a skincare routine:

Leading up to your trial, focus on establishing a regular skincare routine to ensure your skin is in its best shape. Visit a beautician, adopt a good skincare regimen, and consider getting regular facials to improve your skin's health and enhance the outcome of your makeup trial.

Arrive prepared:

On the day of your trial, arrive with a clean face and no makeup. Bring your everyday makeup products, especially foundation, to ensure you feel comfortable with the base of your look. If you plan to wear hair accessories or extensions on your wedding day, bring them to the trial so your stylist can incorporate them into your hairstyle.

Take notes and provide feedback:

Pay attention to how your makeup wears throughout the day after the trial. Take note of any smudging or shine and communicate this to your makeup artist so they can make the necessary adjustments for your wedding day. If you are unhappy with any aspect of the look, don't be afraid to schedule another trial to perfect it.

Remember, your makeup trial is a great opportunity to connect with your artist, provide feedback, and make any desired changes. Enjoy the process of getting pampered and embrace the excitement of your upcoming special day!

Questions to ask your makeup artist before booking

Booking a makeup artist for your wedding is an important task, and you should ask them a few essential questions before finalising anything. Here are some key questions to ask to ensure you've found the right artist for you:

Availability and Requirements:

• Are you available on my wedding day, and when are you available for trials?
• Do you have a minimum or maximum number of people you require for services?
• Are you able to travel for my wedding day, and are there any additional costs for this?
• What information do you need from me to plan out my wedding day?

Portfolio and Experience:

• Can I see examples of your work or your portfolio?
• Have you worked with specific allergies or sensitivities?
• Can I see a copy of your contract?
• Do you have experience working with my skin tone?

Products and Services:

• Which products do you use?
• Will you use my preferred products?
• Do you offer pre-wedding skincare treatments or advice?
• How can you make my wedding makeup last and look good in photos?
• Can I buy my wedding lipstick from you for touch-ups?

Cost:

• What is your standard rate, and what does that include?
• How much do you charge for the bridal party?
• Do you have a minimum spend?
• Will you be using an assistant, and are there any additional costs for this?

Trials:

• When can I book a trial?
• How many looks can we try during a makeup trial?
• When should I have a makeup trial?

Remember, it is essential to schedule a detailed discussion with your wedding makeup artist before committing. Asking these questions will help you make an informed decision and ensure that your wedding day beauty vision is achieved.

How to ensure your makeup artist is qualified

Booking a makeup artist for your wedding can be a daunting task, but there are several ways to ensure that your makeup artist is qualified. Here are some tips to help you feel confident in your choice:

• Ask for referrals and check reviews: Word-of-mouth referrals from friends or family can be a great way to find a qualified makeup artist. Ask around to see if anyone you know has had a good experience with a particular artist. You can also check online reviews to get an idea of the artist's reputation and level of customer satisfaction.
• Review their portfolio: A qualified makeup artist should have a portfolio showcasing their work. Look for a variety of looks in their portfolio to ensure they can create the style you want. Check if they have experience doing makeup for weddings, as this requires a different set of skills than other types of makeup artistry.
• Inquire about their qualifications and experience: Ask the makeup artist about their background and training. Find out if they have any certifications, degrees, or specialised training in bridal makeup. Inquire about their experience, including how many weddings they have worked on and whether they typically work with brides.
• Schedule a trial: Don't be afraid to shop around and book trials with several artists. This will allow you to see their work firsthand and determine if you feel comfortable with them. During the trial, pay attention to their hygiene practices, communication skills, and ability to create the look you want.
• Ask about products and tools: A qualified makeup artist should use high-quality products and tools that are suitable for your skin type. Ask about the brands they use and whether they customise their products to fit your needs. Also, inquire about their process for sanitising and sterilising their equipment to ensure it is safe and hygienic.
• Discuss timing and availability: Make sure the makeup artist is available on your wedding date and can accommodate your bridal party's needs. Ask about their typical timeline for wedding day makeup, including how much time they will need for each person.
• Request references: Don't skip this important step! Ask the makeup artist for references from recent clients, preferably from the last 12-18 months. Contact these references to get feedback on the artist's skills, professionalism, and ability to deliver the desired results.

Remember, it's essential to feel comfortable and confident with your chosen makeup artist. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to ask questions. By following these tips, you can ensure that your makeup artist is qualified and will help you look and feel your best on your special day.

Frequently asked questions