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Try it, you'll like it

One of my recent blog posts was about whether you are required to schedule a trial makeup consultation. As we discussed, a trial consultation is not necessary. But if you have decided you would like to schedule an appointment, let’s get you prepared.

It’s my way or the highway. If you are one of those gals that’s easy-going and can hand over control to the makeup artist, then by all means, let her have her way with you! But if you’ve already combed the internet for makeup looks and saved them to Pinterest, then please be sure to bring along your ideas. Try to have them printed out or maybe bring a tablet, especially if your cell phone is on the smaller side. It wasn’t that long ago, when I had brides walking in with their laptops to show me makeup styles. Ah, technology… how we must roll with the times…Forgive me as I digress…

Something’s missing here. Be sure the makeup artist will provide you with a complete makeup look, just as it will be done on your wedding day. Nothing bugs me more than to hear an artist say, “on the day of, we’ll add the waterproof sealer” or when a hairstylist tells you, “don’t worry, I’ll be sure to use more hair pins to keep that in place on the day of the wedding” For real?! This is a consultation to determine more than what you want your hair and makeup to look like. It should be to decide if the look and style will last from ceremony to reception. Unless the artist is cutting you a price break, the application and service should be identical to what will be done on your wedding day.

Wake me up before you go-go. Schedule your trial consultation early in the morning if at all possible. It’s the best way to determine how well your makeup lasts throughout the day. If you’re up to it, run around the block a few times. How’s the makeup look? Is your sweat making you look too shiny? If you’ve had a hair consultation, did any of those curls fall? How are the hair pins holding up? All these things can help you decide if the look and style is going to make it from the first kiss to the last dance.

She’s got falsies. If you haven’t ever tried them before, false lashes may take some getting use to and you want to be positive you will be able to keep them on until the reception ends. Try them at the consultation and wear them around for the day to see if you are comfortable in them. I have had a few brides who could not stand to wear them at all, so it’s best to play it safe and give it a try.

And the bride wore white. Clothing can definitely alter the appearance of the finished makeup. Try switching your shirt from a black one to white and you will notice how the overall look can change. Wear something white or light colored for your trial makeup application, well unless your wedding dress is red.

Don’t drink the water. To tip or not to tip; there isn’t always a correct answer. But looking into the industry may help you decide for yourself. We are a tip-based society. Provide a service, get a tip. Typically, a tip should be given for exceptional service. When the artist has gone above and beyond your expectations, or perhaps she has provided you with some sort of “extra” service or item. Servers, bartenders, waiters, etc. are paid well below minimum wage as to reflect the additional income from their tips. I have calculated my pricing for the level of service I provide, thus, I do not expect nor require a tip for services rendered. This is also the reason why my makeup trial consultations are priced the same as the wedding day makeup application.

Quite, often I hear brides mention, “she’s the owner, she doesn’t get a tip.” Many brides will tip on the wedding day but not at the trial. Again, there is no right or wrong way. But, what if the makeup service was better than you anticipated? Perhaps the artist touched up the lip gloss on your sister who just tagged along to provide moral support. Or maybe the makeup artist gave you a few tips and pointers on skin care and color selection. Whatever it is that made you feel as if you received more than what you paid for could possibly qualify for a tip to the artist, whether she is the owner or not. If you feel you were wowed in some way, a tip is of course, graciously and always appreciated.

It's a one-man show. Due to the intimacy of a makeup trial consultation, I suggest limiting the number of supporting members you bring with you. My studio isn't extremely large and having to maneuver around a bunch of people while I'm trying to apply makeup can be quite an inconvenience. Not to mention all the back-seat makeup artists that tend to speak up. It's great that you want to get the opinion of those you trust, but opt for just one person. Maid of Honor, your mom, a sister, someone close to you. Everyone has opinions and with a multitude of people voicing their thoughts, your consultation can be more stressful than you would imagine.

Picture perfect. Take photos during your consultation. Lots of photos. It will help both you and the makeup artist determine if the look is working for you. Take photos inside, outside, artificial light, natural light, wherever you can.

Squeaky clean. Arrive with a clean face. Take the time to remove last night's mascara and eyeliner. Black gunk in the eyes is never attractive. And if you show up with makeup on, you will need to remove it to begin the makeup application. Scrubbing your face clean right before makeup is applied may be irritating to your skin. It's better to have a freshly washed face using a gentle cleanser before you leave for your appointment.

Put up or shut up. If you haven't already confirmed and booked the makeup artist, be prepared to put down some amount of money to hold your wedding date. She may have a contract or agreement to sign as well. This way, once you've got the perfect wedding day makeup, you will be able to secure the perfect wedding day  makeup artist to provide that look for you.




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