Many of you will be celebrating your special day in 2013 and congratulations to you. As a former Man of Honor for two close friends and a professional makeup artist I know it is not an easy day. Working with brides on a daily basis and spending up to two hours with them on the actual wedding day getting ready, I know how it improtant it is that everything goes smoothly and the bride is smiling. So allow me to share with you some helpful tips when it comes to choosing who to perform the ritual of bridal beautification for you. Remember, this is one of the most important and memorable days of your life.Your Question: Where do I start?
Answer:
In the world of beauty "word of mouth" is invaluable. Beauty professionals rely on their past work to get future work. Ask friends and family who were recently married who they chose for hair and makeup and why. Everyone knows someone who got married, it will not be difficult to get at least a few names and numbers to start with. This is where the trial becomes very important.
*Word of Advice: Be wary of referrals because they are family members or best friends of people within the bridal party. When it comes down to it, this is business and it has the potential to become awkward if satisfaction is not met on either side. Also, just because they are a best friend or family does not mean they are great or even good. If they are insulted you did not choose them that is their problem not yours and you should not feel guilty for knowing what you want.
Your Question: Should I do a trial?
YES. The trial provides the bride with ability to decide if the makeup artist or hair stylist has met her expectations as a professional and as an artist. In addition, the trials provides the opportunity to become more familiar with the brides face, hair, likes and dislikes, allergies to certain products or ingredients and it is also a great time to bond and get to know each other. Think of it this way, did the beauty professional listen to you, meet your expectations of desired looks, give you confidence, and would you want to spend the day of your wedding getting ready with this person?
*Word of Advice: Before you trial research your makeup artist. Ask them for a website and/or referrals from other brides. Also check out wedding websites where they would have reviews or even Google their names. Trials can cost between $75 to $150 for either hair or makeup and you want to avoid having more than one, so be sure you are trialing with a professional.
Your Question: Should I cover my tattoo and how?
Answer:
As a tattoo concealing expert I am confronted with this question at trial often. The answer is simple. It is up to you, the bride and no one else. Mothers, friends and family need to step aside. Some brides have tattoos with very special meanings and feel strongly about them while others love their tattoos but do not want them to appear in wedding photos. Editing is possible however very expensive. However, there are professionals who can cover tattoos and make them completely disappear, transfer resistant and give a natural looking coverage appearance.
Word of Advice: If you cannot find an artist who has both expertise it is fine to have more than one makeup artist at a time. One to do your face and another to cover your tattoo, I have worked side by side with other artists, I was hired last minute because the bride decided she wanted her tattoo covered and her current artist could not.
Your Question: What do you think about airbrushing?
Answer:
Airbrushing is an excuse to charge people more money for makeup for less work and effort. There are several other ways to create a flawless complexion and if your makeup artist ONLY airbrushes, move on. Airbrush makeup can also be sticky and not wear well. I prefer the classic method of brushes and hands to apply makeup. It does take longer to apply and more expertise however the pay off is invaluable.
Word of Advice: If a pro artist insists the use of airbrush, ask them why it is better than the traditional way. What are the benefits of airbrushing in comparison to brushes and hands for YOU? Do not tell me it is more hygienic because that is a matter of washing your hands before working.
Question: Should I get anything in writing?Answer: YES. When you speak with your potential beauty pro to schedule a meeting for trial you should be able to provide him or her with the total number of bridal party members requiring makeup and hair so the beauty pro can compose a wedding makeup agreement which discloses all the important details from location to wedding date to trial and wedding day pricing and it should be emailed to you before the trial date for your review. Always get everything in writing, it protects both parties.
Word of Advice: Some beauty pros will require a deposit of 10-30% and sometimes more. Especially if it is a destination wedding or very large party and the beauty pro has a packed schedule.
I wish you all the best in 2013 and a beautiful year.
Makeup Artistry seen in all photos by Matthew Ambrosio
Matthew Ambrosio
Pro MUA, Columnist & Beauty Educator
Great information! Everyone should share!
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