There are so many things that can go wrong on a wedding day it’s hard to know where to start. But rest assured, the bride has thought of all of them, and she thinks about them constantly. One of these recurring nuptial nightmares is a bad bridal makeup job. On that day of days, the bride will be trying to look her best so she can feel her best. And the notion that something might be noticeably amiss on, of all things, her face is up there on the wedding day fear-list right alongside the groom not showing up. (In fact, bad makeup may be higher on the list.) Happily, with a little strategy and forethought, this very dark dream need never come true. Following, then, are some expert tips for choosing the right wedding makeup artist for your big day.
Start Your Search Early
One of the most critical steps in planning your wedding makeup is to start your search for a wedding makeup artist well in advance. As you might expect, wedding season is a busy time, with many brides simultaneously vying for the same top talent. So begin your search early. For best results, book your makeup artist at least six months to a year before your wedding, especially if you’re hoping to tie the knot during peak season. By doing this you can secure your preferred wedding makeup artist and eliminate yet another contributor to wedding stress.
Research & Gather Recommendations
Just to be clear, you’re looking for skilled makeup artists with proven track records. As such, seek out as many online reviews and testimonials from previous clients as you can, in order to gauge any artist’s reputation. Browse portfolios to get a sense of style and versatility. Reach out to anyone you can think of—friends, family, colleagues—asking for referrals and recommendations. Your wedding planner, if you’ve engaged one, should also be able to point you in a solid direction. Like with so much else in life, some hard work upfront will pay off in the end, in this case with a wedding day visage that will be the envy of everyone in attendance.
Consider Your Style & Preferences
Natural. Glamorous. Classic. Every bride has a unique vision for her wedding day look. It’s essential, then, to identify a makeup artist whose style aligns with your particular preference. Again, for any artist you’re investigating, review the portfolios of their past work to see if their aesthetics correspond to your desired look. And beyond aesthetics, look for consistency in their portfolio. This should offer confidence that they can reliably deliver the makeup you envision.
Schedule a Trial Session
This is where the rubber meets the road or, perhaps better said, where the eye shadow meets the lid. A bridal makeup trial is an essential step in the process of finding the perfect wedding makeup artist. This is your opportunity to test the artist’s skill and see how the makeup looks on your very own face. During the bridal makeup trial, discuss skincare prep and any specific concerns you may have. This session not only allows you to experiment with different looks but also helps you build a rapport with your artist, ensuring you feel comfortable on your big day.
Check Professionalism & Hygiene Practices
When choosing a bridal makeup artist, professionalism and hygiene should be top priorities. Ensure they use clean brushes and high-quality products. Be sure to communicate any other preferences or no-nos you have at this point in the process. For example, do you consider yourself a friend of animals? If so, you may want to make sure they use cosmetics that aren’t tested on them. And so on. Also, be sure to pay attention to communication style and punctuality—factors that can indicate how they’ll handle your big day. A true professional will make you feel at ease and seem well-prepared for any situation that may arise. Trust your gut.
Budget & Package Options
Before making your decision, compare pricing and package inclusions. Wedding makeup artists have their own particular world of costs and fees they may not necessarily be eager to put front and center in a conversation with you. These might include travel fees, touch-ups, or bridesmaid makeup, and are worth finding out about sooner rather than later. Understanding the full scope of what you’re paying for will keep surprises to a minimum and ensure you stay within budget.
Everything’s Going to Be Alright, Really
The fact is, for all the upfront worry and sleepless nights, most wedding days go perfectly smoothly. If there are things that go amiss, usually they’re insignificant enough that the average attendee never notices anyway. Still, finding the right wedding makeup artist is an investment in your happiness and confidence on your special day. By taking the time to research, trial, and communicate, you can find an artist who makes you feel comfortable and beautiful. Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to go with someone whose vision resonates with yours.
At Union Mills Public House, we understand the importance of special moments and celebrations. As you prepare for the big day, we cordially invite you to check out the cozy ambiance of our vintage venue and explore the accompanying services that can help make your wedding day even more memorable. And, most importantly, by choosing Union Mills Public House you’ll know you’ve made at least one wedding day decision that will go absolutely right.
