I get asked about bridal makeup almost daily. And I love working with brides as they plan the big day. Bridal makeup is necessary for several reasons but mostly it ensures great looking photos. The other day I came across an article giving advice to brides about choosing a makeup artist. The article brought to light many great questions so I thought I would answer a few and share with you. If you think of any questions that I haven't answered here, please feel free to email me at christien@yourmakeupgal.com or call me at #321.279.6543!
1) How do I book you for my wedding date? Is there a deposit? What about a contract? Most brides start with reviewing my website and online portfolio. Then we check to see if I am available for their wedding date and go from there. I have a few different packages available for brides to choose from to meet individual makeup and budget needs. I do require a 50% non-refundable deposit for the estimated cost of the bride (not inlcuding bridesmaids, family members, etc). I also require each bride to sign a contract outlining the services, fees, etc.
2) Will it be YOU at my wedding or another artist? What happens if YOU can't make it on my day? When you speak with me about hiring a makeup artist for your wedding, you are hiring ME as your makeup artist. I have never had an issue where I was late or couldn't show up for a booked wedding In the event I cannot do the makeup on the day of your wedding, I will make every effort to find another makeup artist to provide services. If makeup services cannot be provided at all, I will glady give a full refund.
3) How many weddings have you done? Do you normally work with brides? I have been doing makeup for brides for over 5 years to date. And I don't plan on stopping any time soon... When I think about the countless number of brides I've worked with, I feel honored. It's a privelage to be a part of a day people remember for the rest of their lives. And yes, I do still work in several other areas of makeup such as fashion, film, print, etc. and enjoy that as well.
4) What is your background? Where did you learn to apply makeup? I have been doing makeup for as long as I can remember. I think my fascination with makeup started around age 14?! After deciding (at age 25) that I wanted to be a makeup artist when I grew up, I was hired as a part-time prestige consultant for ULTA. Then I put together a small kit and booked my first bride through craigslist.com. From there, my makeup career blossomed to where I was working full-time in social services (did the whole college thing first) and working weddings, etc. on weekends. After deciding I was tired of being a "weekend warrior," I went back to school in 2010 to learn advanced makeup application at the Joe Blasco Makeup Artist Training Center in Orlando. Since graduating, I have continued to work with brides, in film, on photo shoots, etc. and was hired as a full-time artist with M.A.C Cosmetics. So my training continues almost daily!
5) Do you have a portfolio? YES!! Several pictures of my work can be viewed by clicking HERE!! I try to update as often as possible and I stay current with trends. But pictures always help so don't hesitate to show me
a picture of what you expect.
6) Do you have a website or a blog? Sure do!! And feel free to browse through it all day - http://www.yourmakeupgal.com/! LOL!
7) Do you have references? YES! References are available upon request. A few brides that have "raved" about my work can be found by clicking HERE!
8) What do you charge? I have a few packages available to meet each brides makeup needs with keeping their budget in mind as well. And I leave each and every bride with a touch-up kit!9) What size of bridal party can you accommodate? How long does it typically take per person? I do not have a minimal number of people required to be booked for your wedding makeup and can work with any size bridal party. The largest I've worked with to date is 13 I believe... Hey, it's all about the bride anyways, right! For time planning, I say allow me 25 minutes per person but I've been know to crank out some makeup come crunch time. I often find myself in the time keeper position for larger bridal parties because people are socializing, relaxing, and getting ready (and rightly so).
10) Can you duplicate a makeup look from pictures in a magazine? Pictures always help me get a better understand of the clients expectations. During the trial run, we'll dicsuss skin type, tone, etc. to makeup sure the bride gets the end result expected.
11) What methods of payment do you accept? At this time, I only accept cash, checks, or money orders. And yes, I always provide receipts.
12) What kinds/brands of products do you use? A little of everything. I'm not brand specific because there are so many great products (high-end and drugstore) from different lines. Although I do tend to have a lot of M.A.C products since I work there... During the trial run, we will discuss skin type, etc. to determine the right products to use. I'm available to stick around for touch-ups if desired but I use products/techniques to ensure the makeup lasts as long as you do.
13) Are you able to cover tattoos?? YES! There is a process involved and pricing depends on the size/location of the tattoo.
14) Do you know how to handle severe skin allergies, acne, etc.? Yes. I have dealth with several skin types and textures. And this reason is why the trial run is so important.
15) Do you apply false lashes? YES! I offer both strips and individual lashes to add a little or a lot of drama!!
16) Is there a travel fee?? How far are you willing to travel?? I will ll travel to your chosen location for the trial run and the day of the event. However, there is a charge of $20 for anything more than 20 miles outside of the downtown Orlando area.
17) What happens during the Trial Run? The trial run is necessary because this is when we talk about skin concerns and the look desired. This way, you will know exactly how your makeup will look the day of your wedding. The trial run can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. It's a good idea to take pictures of the makeup so you know how it will photograph and how it will last through the day.