How To Choose The Right Makeup Artist
With Spring finally here, and Summer around the corner, we all know that wedding season is upon us, and whether you are getting married this year, or are a soon to be bride, finding the right makeup artist is one of the most important decisions you will have to make.
Remember girls, those pictures are forever, and you want to make sure that you look your best! So while helping my cousin and his fiance plan their wedding, I came across a few tips (in on specific order) that I thought I’d share with you guys when trying to find that perfect makeup artist.
- Make sure they have a portfolio that you can see! This is EXTREMELY important. In today’s world of LDR’s, many times, the bride may not have enough time to set up a trial, or even get to speak to the MUA in person. Make sure you get your hands on some of their most recent work to see if they’re style and work, matches your ideas, and expectations.
- Look to see if they’ve done makeup on a variety of face types, skin tones, and skin types. You want to make sure that your MUA knows how to bring out your best features, and will have the right tools, and makeup to match your skin tone, and skin type. You also want to look for different styles of makeup. You may want a heavy over the top look, or you may want something more simple.
- Just because they say they use all MAC, and Make Up Forever Products, does not mean that they are a makeup artist. Anyone could go to the mall and buy a bunch of stuff, does that make them a MUA? NO. Ask your artist if they’ve received training, attended any courses, or are certified. Remember, they don’t have to be, but knowing that your MUA has a background and experience in makeup will definitely make you feel more comfortable.
- Set up a trial! If you have the means, and are able to, do it! This is one of the most important days of your life, ladies. Setting up a trial will ensure that you are getting what you want, and what you paid for. Many brides set up multiple trials with multiple MUA’s. Yes, it may cost a bit of $, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Try and find a MUA that does hair, or provides a package. I know for Indian/Desi brides, the worst part about our weddings, is that they happen way too early in the morning. It can be tough trying to find a separate hair person, and a separate MUA to come to the house at 5-6 in the morning. Finding a MUA that does or offers both services not only makes it easier on you, it may even make it easier on your pocket. Many MUA’s offer package deals which include hair, makeup, and setting of jewelry and clothes.
- Use word of mouth. If you happen to be attending a wedding, or know someone who recently got married and you liked their makeup, don’t be afraid to ask! Using word of mouth, you are somewhat ensured that you are choosing someone with credibility. And this way you are not blindly picking!
- Make sure whoever you are communicating with, whether it be the MUA, stylist, etc responds to your emails, calls, and texts in a timely and friendly manner. If you have to constantly nag them, call them, or text them to receive a response, they probably aren’t worth your money. The last thing you need and want is for them to not show up, or show up late on your wedding day! You also want someone who will calm your nerves, not stress you out. Finding a MUA with the right personality, will surely make a world of difference on one of the most nervewracking days of your life.
- Shop around! You don’t need to commit right away. Take some time to do some research, schedule trials, and really think about what you want and expect on your big day. You should be picking someone who’s work you absolutely love, because like I said, those pictures are forever. You want to look your absolute best, and you won’t, unless you love how you look!
So that’s all guys! I know it was pretty lengthy, but hope it was some what informative. Helping my cousin and his fiance through the wedding planning proces has really opened my eyes to a whole new world! I’ve seen some pretty scary stuff when it comes to MUA’s work, as well as customer service, and response time.
With that being said, I did get to talk to, and hopefully will get to one day work with some great ladies, you can check them out here!
Kanwal Batool from Kanwal Batool Makeup at http://www.kanwalbatool.com/
Shaili Shah from Makeup by Shaili at Facebook.com/MakeupByShaili
For those of you not in NY/NJ,
check out MaharaniWeddings.com for some of their platinum vendors, and WeddingWire.com!
Image Source:Ringbearer.ca
Great post! These are important and helpful tips. You were honest and hit the right points.
Thanks so much! Trying to find a MUA artist these days can be a nightmare. Anyone and everyone who buys a few MAC eyeshadows considers themselves a MUA. It’s one of the most important days of your life. You should look and feel like perfection!