In this article I will help you figure out exactly what you need to do. This is to help you find the pros and the best artist that fits your needs. The trick is knowing how to ask the right questions to the artists you will contact because, let’s face it, there are thousands of us. Each one has their own style, strengths and personal touches that they bring to the beauty industry.
Imagine this: You have a special occasion to go to (a graduation party, a wedding or even maybe a new date) and you want to treat yourself by booking a professional makeup artist. You then Google it, only to realize that there are 250 (and one) makeup artists in your area… Now what do you do?
FIRST QUESTION: WHAT SCHOOL DID YOU ATTEND?
Being a makeup artist is, in my (biased) opinion, the best job in the world. We are paid to do what we love and to create art on so many beautiful faces. It’s so rewarding but our job must be taken seriously. We work very close to people’s eyes, even closer to their mouth and with their face’s fragile skin.
In addition, there are so many things to learn about: color harmony, face shapes, how to match makeup with clothing and so much more! The point is that if you hire a makeup artist who has no training, you’re only attracting problems.
SECOND QUESTION CAN U SEE YOUR PORTFOLIO
If you have to ask, you’re already dealing with a less than ideal situation. A true makeup artist should have a good website or professional Facebook page. These days, an online presence is the best and most efficient way to communicate with clients and to be found by them.
When you have the portfolio, follow these two simple rules:
- Do I see women who look like me in the photos?
If you don’t see yourself in her pictures, do not hire their services. If you have dark skin for example, look for artists who have already served women like you. - Does the artist do the same kind of events you are going to? You may love the artist’s personality, but if they are the Zombie Walk kind of artist, maybe you should look for someone else.
THIRD: CAN YOU COME TO MY LOCATION
When there is a special occasion, you have a lot to handle: clothing, nails, hair… I strongly recommend doing all the preparations at the same place to avoid delays. (GIPHY)
Most artists are usually willing to travel at the clients home for a fee. But there’s nothing better than being pampered in the comfort of your own home, so treat yourself and #LiveYourBestLife
FOURTH QUESTION: HOW LONG IS THE APPOINTMENT
Your special occasion probably starts at a specific time. It is therefore important to know how long your artist will take in order to plan your time. That said, expect to spend 45 to 75 minutes with your artist. This will have time to take good care of your skin and your look.
FIFTH QUESTION: WHAT ARE YOUR RATES?
Artists are mostly freelancers, which means we often wear more than one hat. We do our own marketing, accounting and even graphic designs! In addition to all this work, we have to ensure we are always full on products. Quality makeup products like Chanel, Bobbi Brown, Makeup Forever, Guerlain are not cheap! We have to buy them and renew them every once in a while so that no one gets a rash or something with a product that has gone bad.
If you see someone is charging anything under $60 per face, please do a double take! In order to offer such a low rate this artist is probably not using the highest quality products…they also might not have extensive education and experience.
In conclusion..
The important thing is to build a bond and to trust your artist. The more you’re comfortable, the more the artist will be. However, remember that makeup artist are not mind readers. They need to know what you are expecting and you can’t be afraid to communicate your needs so you can have the look you’re dreaming of. Listen to yourself when it comes time to book your artist and go with what feels right to you.
Gabbie xx
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