According to Theknot.com the most popular months for weddings are June, August, September and October. That means that we are on the final month of wedding season. If you’re gettin’ hitched in October, let us help you find the perfect makeup artist (MUA) for your big day. These are four things you should be looking for.
1. A License
In the state of Tennessee it’s required that any person charging for makeup application services be licensed as an esthetician or cosmetologist. While unlicensed professionals may possess the skills to complete your makeup look, that doesn’t mean they were trained properly in sanitation or proper safety and handling skills.
Licensure lets you know that that person has completed training regulated by the state. That also means they have passed their state board examination and are recognized by the state as fluent in their craft. You can always ask to see their license, so don’t be afraid to request it.
If you wouldn’t get skin care treatments from someone who is unlicensed, you shouldn’t be willing to get your wedding day makeup done by someone unlicensed!
2. A Portfolio
A quality portfolio for a makeup artist includes a variety of images. They might have this online or in person, but it’s important that you take a look at the styles they’ve created in the past. Someone who specializes in wedding day makeup will probably be your best option.
You’ll want for someone who has created looks that are similar to what you’re envisioning. However, your focus for finding the perfect artist should be on the artist’s personality. Find someone you can work with. Someone who you can spend at least an hour talking to and becoming inspired by. After all, this person is going to be along side you on your big day!
3. References
After you’ve taken a look at their portfolio, ask for references. We recommend that you speak to at least three people who have worked with the makeup artist within the last few months. Ask not only about the quality of their work, but about their preparedness, pricing and scheduling accommodations.
You should also ask their references about the artist’s safety and sanitation procedures.
- Did they bring clean brushes?
- Was their makeup old or new?
- How clean was their bag?
It might also be a good idea to take a look at their educational history. They may have an instructor listed on their references, so make sure to do your due diligence. Take a look at the institution’s website, and see what you can find out about them and their reputation.
4. A Schedule That Works for You
Ask the artist about their scheduling. It’s obvious you don’t want to pick someone who is unavailable on your big day, but you should also make sure they are available for a trial run. (Trial runs/practice sessions are typically included in your final price.) It is clear that anyone who is running late or cancels last minute to your practice run, is probably going to be flakey when it comes to the real deal.
Ask them what their schedule is, when they are available for a practice look, how they deal with cancellations and changes and what they will do if, and we mean if, they have to cancel on your wedding day.
How to Hire a MUA
Now that you know how to narrow down your MUA selection, here’s how to go about booking one!
- Contact them via their preferred method.
You may be tempted to message a makeup artist on Instagram, but refrain if that’s not their preferred method of communication. Find an email, social media, app or phone number that they use for business. - Pick out a day and time for both your practice session and the big day.
Come prepared. It takes a lot of the guess work out, and it will save you both time. - Have a “mood board” or pictures of the look you want to create.
Come prepared with examples of what you want. The MUA may not have the tools or makeup to complete the look you’re looking for. - Stick to your appointments!
Once you’ve booked your services, make sure to show up! It isn’t polite on either end to be late. Be courteous to your makeup artist, and they will be courteous to you!
Share Your Experience!
Have you used these tips to find the perfect MUA? What was your experience? What would you share with other brides?
