Get the most out of your makeup trial

Exfoliate you skin before hand and make sure it’s well hydrated
If you plan to tan for your big day, either have it done for the trial too, or let your makeup artist know. We write it all down, including the makeup shade we used, so if we need to account for a possible change, it’s better to know)
Wear the same or similar colour to your wedding dress, the colour you’re wearing can change the whole look.
If your hair will be up on the day, wear it up for your trial, or down if you play to have your hair down.
Use this time to work out the timing of the day – where does the bride need to be at what times, how much time to do allow per person to have their makeup done? Remember, you’re not using your wedding time as the ‘be ready by’ time; you should use the photographers arrival as your guide. You’ll need everyone’s hair and makeup done and possibly everyone dressed by the time the photographer arrives.
Lip colour – remember that you will need to do touch ups on your wedding day. So, if you have your own lip colour, let the makeup artist know to use it in your trial. If they use a lip colour that you like, make sure you get the details so you can purchase it before the day. Some makeup artists will also sell the lipstick they use on you.     
Discuss the other members of your bridal party – what colour will they be wearing, what’s their hair and eye colour, what sort of makeup do they usually wear, is there anything the makeup artist should be advised of e.g. allergies

Cost & payment

Generally makeup artists will charge you per person that requires a makeup application, and sometimes more for the bride (due to time, effort and product).

Makeup artists vary considerably but you’ll probably get what you pay for. Use the ‘choosing a makeup artist’ guide

When you book through an agency, it will generally be slightly more expensive, but can be a good secure option too.

When you book, you’ll likely need to pay a deposit to secure the booking. The balance is usually required 7 days prior to the wedding date.

You will be required to pay for the bridal trial. Some artists give you a discount if you book the wedding date. Bridal trials are sometimes the longest ever makeup jobs, you may want to try a few different looks, edits certain looks, and take photos.

You may also be charged for travel, location (e.g. some charge for coming to hotels), parking, surcharge for very early morning (e.g. 4am), or products left behind (like lipstick)

Flower girls are free in most cases, depending on their age, back with the artist.

Choosing your makeup artist

Start with people you know who have gotten married and go on recommendations. It’s the safest way to know that they’re reliable & professional and you have something to refer to in reference to their work.

If they have a website, look at their work – but be careful, Photoshop is an amazing program, ask about the photos!

Qualifications – you may be surprised, some of the best makeup artists are completely self taught, so although this might seem impressive, experience is probably more helpful in determining a good makeup artist.

Experience with weddings – they’re very different to other makeup applications, so make sure they have bridal and bridal party makeup experience.

What hygiene precautions do they take? E.g. disposable mascara and lip wands, petri dishes for liquids etc.

What brands of makeup do they use? Are they high end professional brands or mostly cheaper brands?

Some makeup artists also do hair, but be careful with your timings though as having someone get their hair done while another is getting their makeup done is very helpful. If you have to wait for the one person to do both on every person it will take a long time.

Common Questions

Why does it cost more to get my makeup done for my wedding rather than just a ‘night out’?

Put simply – it takes ore effort, product and time to do a bridal makeup than ‘night out’. There’s more effort required to ensure you look fab for your photos and the makeup lasts 12 hours plus. 

Do I need to have a bridal trial?

Yes, yes and yes. Just like you try on your wedding dress before you decide to buy it, you need to try your look on! It gives you the opportunity to see if the look you (or your makeup artist) had in mind actually works, and how it lasts throughout the day. Plus you can then by sure that you have the right makeup artist for you.

Should I have my hair done before or after my makeup?

It’s better to have your hair done before your makeup – that way you don’t end up with hairspray, water, hair gel and sweat (from the dryer) all over your makeup!

What order should I get my bridal party ready in?

The bride should never be last! Just in case, it’s always best to have the bride ready earlier just in case there are any timing hiccups. You’d rather have the bridesmaid’s makeup or hair rushed than the brides! Plus, if the photographer arrives a little early then it’s easy and you get to watch and enjoy your closest friends and family get ready without worrying about the time!