When you’re selecting your wedding team, your beauty team must mesh seamlessly with the rest of your providers. Your hair and makeup experience shouldn’t add tension to your day, but be an oasis that provides a moment of calm and relaxation. A great bridal beauty team will have a strong social media presence, making it easier for you as a soon-to-be bride to see examples of their work. If you’re only seeing selfies, extremely filtered photos, or just a single style of hair or makeup, they may not be the right vendor for you. A person may style their hair or apply makeup on themselves extremely well, but that does not mean they can apply their skills to others. A professional makeup artist and hairstylist should have a diverse portfolio and be able to cater to a variety of faces and styles. Selecting a makeup artist, hairstylist, or a team that has a strong portfolio typically means they are well versed in all of the aspects that accompany a wedding morning. Often, hair and makeup artists are blamed for delays in the schedule, but most times it’s due to lack of experience and an understanding of the time needed for each service. Reviews from past clients, a comprehensive and professional website, and a strong portfolio are just a few of the key elements you will look for when choosing your team.

Let’s face it, weddings are expensive. It’s no surprise that brides are constantly on the lookout for ways to keep their wedding costs down. While there are licensed professional artists and stylists out there who are more budget-friendly, your wedding photos and how you look in them are forever. Any bride who’s had the unfortunate experience of hating their wedding day hair or makeup will tell you that, in hindsight, there is no amount they wouldn’t have paid on their day to have loved the way they looked.

Once you’ve narrowed down your search to a few top contenders, reach out to your chosen vendors. First, you will want to request a quote with all of your wedding details: date & time, location, number of people receiving services, as well as the type of services required. This will ensure that they are available on your wedding date and able to accommodate your wedding party needs. Brides are booking vendors 12-18 months in advance, so to avoid disappointment, secure your date early! Most vendors require a deposit or retainer to schedule your wedding day in their books. Make sure you read the fine print of your contracts and ask any questions you may have before you sign. Always remember…this artist or team will be with you for most of your wedding morning. You will want to make sure that you have a good connection with them and can imagine having their energy as part of your big day. They should be personable, easy to communicate with, and helpful in answering your questions.

Remember when you found the “perfect dress” and how you felt? You should have that feeling when you discover the right hair and makeup artist for you. A sense of excitement should wash over you after you’ve selected the team that is right for you. By carefully selecting your beauty vendor, you are ensuring a happy, stress-free morning on one of the most important days of your life. Good luck with your search!