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Choosing a makeup artist
By Natalie Tsang
August 11, 2011
Although wedding photography has advanced enough to provide the illusion of flawless skin, you still want to be looking your best in real life. You will want to plan a few makeup trials before you tie the knot. This will allow you to experiment with several looks and wear them each for several hours. The wedding gown you choose will also drastically influence the style of makeup you will wear. For example, ball gown wedding dresses may require dramatic makeup, while slim line wedding dresses may inspire a more natural and ethereal look.
Consider a makeup artist even if you can apply eye shadow in the dark. But who to choose?
The Professional Makeup Artist
A professional makeup artist does makeup for a living. In most cases, he or she will make you sign a contract and offer a complimentary trial. They often have a portfolio that you can look through to see if you like their style. They have a wide variety of products and are also familiar with how their work will appear in photographs and under different types of environments and lighting. However, the downside of having a professional makeup artist is that they can be quite expensive. If you don't know any makeup artists, there are registries you can look through or ask your wedding photographer or your favorite beauty counter for a recommendation.
The Beauty Student
If you want someone who has professional training but can't spare the budget, then consider visiting your local beauty school. Many beauty schools have classes specifically on bridal makeup so your student can be quite knowledgeable. Keep in mind that there are various skill levels. You might be blown away by the creativity of one student or stunned by the mediocrity of another. If you require makeup for multiple people, a beauty student might not be able to manage time as well as a seasoned veteran. However, you should also schedule some wiggle time.
The Gifted Natural
Sometimes a home cook who's learned by trial and error is better than a chef that's spent years in the restaurant business. If you have a friend who's done your makeup for years from prom to college parties to that wedding last year, then why not work with a proven formula? If this person has never done your face before, get together and have a session. Also, make sure she wants to take on the responsibility. She might feel pressured to help you out when in fact she'd rather just enjoy being a guest.
Overall, it is best to choose someone you feel comfortable with and who best meets your budget.
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