June is bridal show month in Phoenix and we always see an increase in calls from brides asking when they should book hair and makeup services for their wedding day. A licensed, experienced makeup artist is worth his/her weight in gold because he/she will be able to help you identify styles/looks that will compliment your dress while still allowing you to look like you. This being said, highly sought after artists book quickly. With that in mind, you should book your hair/makeup artist no less than six months before your wedding as noted in the WeddingWire vendor wedding checklist below.
Finding the Right Hair and Makeup Artist
Referrals are gold. Ask your family, friends, wedding planner, venue or anyone else who’s opinion you value. Wedding blogs, bridal magazines and social media outlets can also provide insight into who you may want to call.
Things to Consider
A good hair and makeup artist should be able to identify your skin tone, suggest the most appropriate colors for your complexion, and recommend hairstyles based on the shape of your face, the style of your dress, your accessories and your personality. You need to be prepared to show photos of the hair and makeup looks you like to provide a foundation with which to start.
Booking a Trial
Schedule your makeup trial 30-60 days before your wedding date. Trials are typically held in the artist’s studio or salon and offers you and the stylist the opportunity to create your hair and makeup look and make changes, before your wedding day. Unlike dress shopping, which typically involves your bride tribe, your trial is not a spectator sport so it is best to minimize the number of bridesmaids that want to join you. Salon space tends to be limited and too many bodies (and opinions) may prove distracting for the stylist.
This is your time to bond with your stylist, to provide feedback, to ask questions or seek advice and to be comfortable with the finished look. Your stylist will take notes (and hopefully photos) to document the finished product to eliminate any confusion on the big day!
The Wedding Day
Ideally you will want stylists/artists that will travel to you. Some may charge a travel fee depending on your location but this shouldn’t deter you from booking an established experienced artist. The hustle and bustle of a hair salon may not allow you to feel as pampered as you need to feel on your wedding day. Be sure to ask, before booking, if your styling team will travel to you.
