Do I need a trial makeup consultation for my wedding?

This question comes up quite often so I decided to give you my thoughts.

Do I need a trial makeup consultation for my wedding? In one simple word, no.

I realize there are some makeup artists out there who will not, for whatever reason, provide wedding day makeup for a bride without first having a consultation. I am not one of those artists. Perhaps it stems from working in the film and print industry (outside of bridal) where I have learned to hone my skills and listen to what the client wants. Whether it's a model, photographer or producer requesting a specific look, I am confident in my ability to provide exactly what they envision for their project. My clients are pleased and everyone walks away satisfied with the results.

My years of experience working as a makeup artist in Florida has given me a long history of wedding day makeup for destination brides. Very few of these brides are able to make all but the most required trips to plan their wedding day. Trying to schedule in a makeup consultation may not be something that fits into their plans. And it's okay.

Communication with your makeup artist is key, as is finding an artist who provides you with images of her work. Knowing that the artist's style matches your wedding day makeup idea is extremely beneficial. I will often request my brides email me images of makeup looks that appeal to them. As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words.

I have also provided the trial makeup consultation for the bride's rehearsal dinner. This gives us a chance to meet prior to the wedding day and she gets an idea of the style. I can certainly make adjustments or do something completely different for her actual wedding day.

In the event a trial isn't in the cards, I am still able to make my brides glamorous and beautiful for their wedding by listening to the individual and knowing that her day must be perfect, including her makeup.

If you are a bride considering a makeup artist for your wedding but are worried because you may not be able to have a trial consultation for whatever reason, rest assured knowing that with open communication and visual images (inspiration photos) you will be able to find a makeup artist for your special day.

Keep in mind that most makeup artists book up extremely quickly and many will not hold a wedding date without some sort of retainer fee. So whether you are scheduling a trial makeup consultation or not, you want to be sure to have the makeup artist secured far enough in advance.