Finding Your Dream Wedding Makeup And Hair Artist

Finding the right hair and makeup artist for your wedding can be a daunting task. It is important to start by asking for recommendations from friends and family who have recently been married or are in the wedding industry. You can also look at online platforms such as The Knot, Wedding Wire, and Zola, which offer a wide range of options to choose from. Another way to find artists is by stalking wedding photographers in your desired area on social media platforms like Instagram, as they often tag other vendors in their photos. It is also a good idea to check your venue's website and social media accounts, as they often list or tag recommended vendors. Once you have found a few potential artists, be sure to look at their portfolios, read reviews, and book a trial to ensure they are the right fit for your special day.

Ask friends and family for recommendations

When it comes to your wedding day, you want your hair and makeup to be perfect. Asking friends and family for recommendations is a great way to find a hair and makeup artist who can help you achieve the look you want. Here are some tips on why and how to ask for referrals from your loved ones:

Word-of-mouth referrals are often the most reliable way to find a hair and makeup artist for your wedding. Your friends and family will give you honest opinions and feedback based on their own experiences. They can tell you about the artist's skills, talent, and whether they were able to achieve the desired look. Additionally, asking for recommendations can help you find someone who has experience with similar weddings and who understands the latest trends and styles.

How to Ask Friends and Family for Recommendations:

• Reach Out to Recently Married Friends: Start by asking your friends who have recently tied the knot. They will have first-hand experience and can provide fresh insights on the hair and makeup artists they used. Ask them about their overall experience, the artist's professionalism, and if they were happy with the final look.
• Consider Different Styles and Themes: If you have a specific wedding theme or style in mind, ask your friends and family if they know of any artists who specialise in that area. For example, some artists may excel in natural looks, while others may be experts in more dramatic or glamorous styles.
• Look at Their Wedding Photos: Scrolling through your friends' wedding photos on Instagram or Facebook can give you a good idea of the hair and makeup artist's work. You can also ask your friends if they have any recommendations for artists who can create a particular look you admire from their photos.
• Get Feedback on the Artist's Personality: Aside from their technical skills, it's essential to find a hair and makeup artist who is easy to work with and has a calming presence. Ask your friends and family about the artist's personality and if they contributed to a relaxed and enjoyable wedding day experience.
• Inquire About Availability and Pricing: Find out if the recommended artists were punctual and able to accommodate the wedding party's needs. Additionally, ask about their pricing structure, including any hidden fees or additional charges, to help you make an informed decision that fits within your budget.
• Check for Flexibility and Adaptability: Discuss with your friends and family how the artist handled any last-minute changes or requests. This will give you an idea of the artist's flexibility and their ability to adapt to unexpected situations, ensuring your big day runs smoothly.

Remember, your friends and family want the best for you on your wedding day. Their honest recommendations and feedback will help you find a hair and makeup artist who suits your style, personality, and budget. So, don't hesitate to reach out and ask for their advice and guidance!

Check out wedding photographers in your area

When it comes to your wedding, you'll want to look your best for the photos, so it's worth entrusting your hair and makeup to professionals. The average cost of wedding hair and makeup in the US is around $300, ranging from $150 to $600 depending on your location and the complexity of the style.

Now, check out wedding photographers in your area. This is a very important step, as your photographer will capture your big day and all its beautiful moments, creating memories for you to treasure forever. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect wedding photographer:

• Determine your photography style preferences. Browse real wedding photos and identify the images that speak to you. Do you prefer classical poses, fun, real-life shots, or artistic, experimental photography? Knowing your style will help you find a photographer who matches it.
• Use trusted wedding websites like WeddingWire or The Knot to find wedding photographers in your area. Review their portfolios and check out their social media feeds to see their most recent work. Ensure their style resonates with you and that they have experience shooting weddings similar to yours.
• Narrow down your list to around five photographers and reach out to them. Ask about their availability for your wedding date and their pricing. The majority of photographers charge between $1,150 to $3,000 in the United States.
• During your initial contact, share a little about yourself, your wedding venue, and your photography style preferences. Send them some of your favorite wedding images so they understand your taste.
• Interview your top choices. Finding the right wedding photographer is not just about matching styles but also personalities. You'll be spending a lot of time with this person on your wedding day, so ensure you feel comfortable working with them.
• During the interview, inquire about their wedding packages. Many photographers offer engagement photoshoots and may be available for other events like your wedding shower or rehearsal dinner.
• Be clear about timing. Most photographers will shoot from pre-wedding preparations to the end of the reception, but it's always good to confirm. If you're planning a large wedding, consider requesting a second photographer to ensure they capture every moment.
• Ask about turnaround time. Many wedding photographers need at least a month to edit their images before sending the final album. If you want your photos quickly, be sure to bring this up during the interview.

Look at portfolios and reviews

When looking for a hair and makeup artist for your wedding, it's important to look at portfolios and reviews. This will give you a good idea of the artist's style and skill level, as well as what past clients have thought of their work. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Portfolios

When reviewing portfolios, look for artists whose style aligns with your vision for your wedding day look. For example, if you're seeking a bold and glamorous look, find artists who showcase similar styles in their portfolios. On the other hand, if you prefer a more natural and minimal look, seek out artists who specialise in enhancing one's natural beauty.

A good portfolio should include a range of high-quality photos that showcase the artist's skills and expertise. This can include before-and-after shots, close-ups of intricate makeup details, and images of the artist's work on models or real brides. Some artists may also include videos in their portfolios, which can be a great way to see their work from different angles and in action.

In addition to visual content, portfolios may also include an artist statement explaining their style and approach, a list of services offered, and client testimonials. It's also beneficial to look for artists who have experience working with a variety of clients and in different settings, such as destination weddings or editorial photoshoots. This indicates versatility and adaptability.

Reviews

Reviews can provide valuable insights into the artist's skills, professionalism, and overall experience. When reading reviews, pay attention to the details mentioned by past clients. For example, did the artist arrive on time? Were they easy to communicate with? Were the clients happy with the final look?

It's also important to consider the source of the reviews. Look for reviews on reputable websites or platforms specifically designed for wedding vendors, as these are more likely to be authentic and trustworthy. You can also ask the artist for references or speak to friends or acquaintances who have used their services.

By taking the time to thoroughly review portfolios and consider past client reviews, you can feel more confident in your choice of hair and makeup artist for your special day. It's also beneficial to remember that you can always meet with multiple artists and book trials before making your final decision.

Consider your budget

The cost of hiring a wedding hair and makeup artist can vary depending on several factors, so it's important to consider your budget when making your choice. The average cost of wedding hair and makeup in the US is around $300, but prices can range from $150 to $600 or more. The cost will depend on factors such as the artist's experience and location, as well as the complexity of the style you want.

When creating your budget, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the artist's level of experience. More experienced artists will typically charge higher rates. Second, think about the location of your wedding. If you're having a destination wedding or getting married in an area with a higher cost of living, you may need to pay more for hair and makeup services.

Additionally, the complexity of the style you want will affect the price. For example, intricate updos or elaborate braids will likely cost more than simpler styles. If you want airbrush makeup, false lashes, or hair extensions, these will also add to the cost.

It's important to ask for pricing information upfront and to be clear about what is included in the quoted price. Some artists may charge extra for travel, trials, or additional services. Be sure to read reviews and ask for referrals from friends to get an idea of the expected cost and to find artists who are a good fit for your budget.

Remember, your wedding hair and makeup are important aspects of your big day, so it's worth investing in a professional who can help you achieve your desired look. However, it's also crucial to stay within your budget and only spend what you are comfortable with. There are artists at various price points, so take the time to find one who suits your needs and budget.

Book a trial

Booking a trial with your wedding makeup artist is an important step in ensuring that you are happy with your wedding day look. Here are some tips to make the most of your trial:

Timing is key

It is recommended to schedule your trial as soon as you have sent your reference photos to your makeup artist. This will give you time to make any necessary adjustments and ensure that you are happy with the final look. It is also a good idea to schedule your trial at a similar time of day to your actual wedding, so you can see how the makeup looks in different lighting throughout the day.

Be prepared

Before your trial, be sure to gather any photos that speak to you, whether from magazines, social media, or people you know. It is also helpful to know the shades you would like to incorporate and the overall feeling you want to invoke. This will guide the conversation with your makeup artist and ensure that they understand your vision.

Ask questions

Don't be afraid to voice any concerns or ask questions during your trial. Pay close attention to how your skin reacts to the products used and speak up if you experience any irritation. Ask your makeup artist about the products they are using and how long you can expect the makeup to last. This is also a good opportunity to discuss the timeline for your wedding day and how long it will take to complete your makeup look.

Take photos

Take photos of your makeup from different angles so you can see how it looks in photographs. This will also allow you to see how the makeup wears throughout the day and if any touch-ups are needed.

Consider a hair trial

If you are also booking a hair stylist for your wedding, you may want to consider a hair trial as well. This will give you a chance to test out your complete look and ensure that your hair and makeup complement each other.

Book your artist

If you are happy with the results of your trial and the service provided, be sure to book your artist as soon as possible, especially if your wedding is during peak wedding season. It is recommended to book your wedding hair and makeup artist at least three months in advance.

Frequently asked questions