Your wedding day is one of the most important events in your life. Of all the days to skimp on makeup, your wedding is definitely not one of them. Remember that you’ll have to live with photos from your wedding for the rest of your life. Finding a good makeup artist is indispensable, although finding the right one can be challenging. Here are a few tips to help you to find the perfect MUA for your special day.
Start searching as soon as possible! It is not unusual to find that most photographers, hairstylists, and makeup artists are booked a year in advance | ahead. Ideally, you should start looking at least six months before your big day or three months in advance for off-season weddings. If you’ve found an awesome artist who you know you want to work with, (delete 'on your big day', repetitive) don’t wait! To avoid disappointment, book trials early.
Social media is a great tool for finding good content but don’t depend solely on it. There are plenty of “beauty gurus” and "instagram beauty bloggers" with no professional background. The downside is that the majority of these people are not real makeup artists, and are not trained in how to properly analyse and work with different face shapes and colors. Being able to do your own makeup is one thing, but being able to apply makeup on a different face structure and skin tone is another thing entirely. A true professional makeup artist has a keen eye for art, they view every client's face as their blank canvas to create a beautiful masterpiece. First-hand recommendations are the best, but be wary of the source. Do a Google search for professionals with trusted media websites and portfolios, and steer away from shady sources. Always rely on trusted media websites and first hand recommendations.
Can you imagine looking in the mirror and not liking your bridal makeup? Well, that is one of the many reasons a bridal makeup consultation is necessary. When you have found an artist whose work you like, book a trial. I would recommend 5-6 weeks prior to your big day. Bring pictures of a desired look, tell your makeup artist everything you want and, more importantly, what you don’t want. Your makeup artist should always listen to you; communication is crucial at this point. But also, you should listen to your makeup artist. The makeup artist is a professional and is capable of recommending bridal makeup styles that suit your face, while rejecting makeup styles that aren’t a good fit. Listen carefully to the advice the makeup artist is offering you. We know what your skin type, face structure and overall style can bear and we will do everything to customise the desired look for you. We are equipped with the proper tools and knowledge to use the correct colors and techniques that are needed to bring out your best features for your wedding day. In the same way that we invest in our tools, we also invest in our education. Many professionals have received advanced training in makeup education, learning new techniques to keep up with trends and the desires of our clients. Professional MUAs (makeup artists) have mastered color theory, face analysis and bringing one’s complexion to perfection.
Always expect to pay for a trial. Makeup artists put out the same effort, use same amount of makeup, and give same attention as in “non-trial” sessions. It is a good investment to get to know your makeup artist ahead of time, they will write down every product that’s been used; from base to eyelash type, and document it all with pictures; making sure everything runs smoothly on your big day. Also, makeup artists invest a lot of time in doing trials, usually from 2-3 hours, working with you until achieving the desired look.
It is also important that you feel comfortable with your makeup artist. After all, they are going to be a big part of your wedding day. Personally, I love to make my clients feel comfortable around me, maintaining both a professional, as well as personal relationship. A professional makeup artist will be friendly, calm, and ready to answer all your questions regarding makeup. Finding a makeup artist you “click” with is important because wedding day stress can be a lot to handle, and having someone friendly and calm around can make it easier for you.
When you find a makeup artist whose work you like and who you get along with on a personal level, don’t hesitate to book them as soon as possible. We professionals tend to book up quickly, approximately a year ahead especially in a wedding season (April - September). If you’re hiring a professional, always expect to sign a contract. That way, both parties are protected, ensuring we are both on the same page. A contract will protect you from a MUA bailing on you at the last moment, charging you something you didn’t agree on, and so on. Like most wedding professionals, no dates are set aside for professional makeup artists until the contract is signed and returned, and a deposit is received. If any professional you are interested in working with for your wedding or special event does not give you any contracts to look over and sign, you should walk away from it.
I hope this article helped you in finding a professional MUA who will work well with you, make your day less stressful and more enjoyable. Remember: it is never too early to book your appointment, do a trial, discuss all your ideas with your makeup artist and most importantly - sit back and relax. Stay beautiful and have a great day!
