Makeup artists: how to book for a wedding, party or photoshoot
Date and time: the most expensive hours are early morning
For a makeup artist, it matters not only how the makeup looks but when it has to be ready. Weddings, farewells and shoots often start early in the morning, so the artist gets up earlier and sometimes comes to a hotel or your home. An early start, and peak season dates such as the wedding months, usually affect the price. So for popular dates, contact artists several weeks ahead.
Type of makeup
Daytime makeup for the office, evening, bridal, for a photoshoot, or a lesson (“learn to do your own”) are different jobs. For photos you need staying power and a texture that works under lights; for a wedding, endurance for the whole day, with touch-ups. If you also need a hairstyle, say so, because many artists work with a hairstylist or offer a package.
Why a trial makeup is useful
Before a wedding or shoot, it is sensible to do a trial. You will see whether you like the style, and the artist will take into account your skin tone, eye sensitivity and how long it lasts. Ask whether the trial is included in the price or paid separately. If you are prone to allergies, tell them beforehand: the artist will choose products or bring their own.
On the day of the event, arrive with a clean face and no night cream, and show a photo of the look you want in advance. For a long day, ask for a touch-up kit, such as lipstick and blotting papers. In hot and humid weather, ask about long-wear and waterproof products.
How to compare offers
- what is in the price: makeup, hairstyle, trial, travel, touch-ups on the day;
- how many people the artist serves and how much time is given to each;
- a portfolio with exactly the type of makeup you need;
- booking terms: the advance payment and what happens if the event is postponed.
On BlaBlaPrice you do not scroll through artists’ pages: you write a request once, and artists in your city reply in chat with a price, or what it depends on, and free dates. They see where they stand among the others and compete on terms. The platform shows the best-value offer first, with reviews next to each one. Your phone number stays hidden. More on the “How it works” page.
What to include in your request
- type of makeup — bridal, evening, for a shoot, daytime;
- number of people — for example the bride and two bridesmaids;
- hairstyle, if needed;
- date and time to be ready;
- home visit or salon;
- trial makeup;
- area, the artist’s experience, budget.
Example: “I need bridal makeup and hairstyle for the bride and makeup for two bridesmaids on 15 December, ready by 9:00, at a hotel. I need a trial makeup. Abu Dhabi. A portfolio of bridal looks is a must. Budget up to AED 880.”
To prepare for the event, also see hairdressing services and manicure and pedicure.
