I have been a makeup artist since 2007, and have done everything from movies and editorial to weddings and makeup lessons. It has always been hard for me to stick with one speciality, as I find each department so enjoyable in their own ways! With wedding season in full bloom, I’m often asked how a bride should pick the right wedding makeup artist for her big day.
WEDDINGS ARE SUCH A SPECIAL EVENT, AND EACH BRIDE HAS HER OWN IDEA OF THE PERFECT DAY. WITH THE COUNTLESS BRIDES I HAVE MET OVER THE YEARS, I’VE LEARNED 5 KEY THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN SELECTING THE RIGHT WEDDING MAKEUP ARTIST.
1) CHECK OUT THE MAKEUP ARTIST’S PORTFOLIO
If she/he has a website, go though their work. If not, ask him/her to send you some photos of their past work. Make sure their makeup style fits with the look you have in mind for your big day.
2) DO A TRIAL
Once you’ve decided you love the artist’s work, set a trial. Trials are extremely important when choosing an artist. This will give you a chance to sit with the artist and discuss exactly what look you want. If you don’t love it initially, the trial gives you the chance to tweak the look to make it absolutely perfect. Another tip I give my clients is to do the trial the same day as your engagement photos so that you can also see how the makeup photographs. I also recommend doing the trial one-on-one, so you can really get to know the artist. Sometimes a bride’s voice can be over shadowed by too many opinions. It’s much easier for the wedding party, mother, etc. to see the makeup after, and give their feedback. But I usually tell brides that if they love their makeup, then everyone else should too.
3) CHEMISTRY IS IMPORTANT
Most makeup artists, especially experienced ones, will do a wonderful job on your makeup for your wedding day. However, I find chemistry is extremely important when choosing the right makeup artist for your wedding. How you get along with your artist, can really set the mood for the rest of the day. A bride’s mind is usually filled with lots of details on the morning of her wedding day. Pick an artist that you get along with well, and makes you feel totally comfortable. This will set the tone for the rest of the day, and will help put your mind at ease.
4) MAKE SURE THE ARTIST USES QUALITY PRODUCTS
The quality of products that most experienced artists use, are second to none. It takes years for most artists to build their kits. Their kits are the end product of years of trial and errors (mainly on themselves). They choose the perfect products that photograph well and look amazing all day and night. After your trial, keep your makeup on all day and see how it wears. Feel free to contact your artist with any issues you have with the makeup.
5) MAKE SURE IT FITS WITHIN YOUR BUDGET
Make sure before even booking a trial that the artist’s rates are within your budget. Most artists will charge a fee for their trial, and it can add up if you end up doing multiple trials.
In the end, you’ll know when you’ve chosen the right artist for your special day. What’s most important is that you love your artist and their specific style!
Happy wedding season!
Maureen
