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1. THE LESS EXPENSIVE OPTION IS NOT ALWAYS THE BEST OPTION.
I know that planning a wedding can be incredibly expensive and you may be looking to save money in any area possible; don't let your makeup be one of them. Hiring a relative or friend to do your makeup because they will give you the "friends and family discount" might seem like a great idea at first, but if they do not possess the proper skills and knowledge about bridal makeup things can go downhill very quickly. You will be left wishing that you had spent the extra money when you are about to walk down the aisle and realize that you look nothing like what you had envisioned.
Professional makeup artists may be more expensive, but as the old saying goes "you get what you paid for". Freelance makeup artists supply the makeup for their own kits, which means that they are spending lots of money to get products that will make you look your best and that will last the duration of your wedding. In addition, being sanitary isn't always cheap. Makeup artists are constantly restocking their kits with mascara wands, sponges, eyelashes, etc. so that they are not using the same materials on multiple people, which could cause the spreading of germs and bacteria. No one wants an infection to be spread throughout their bridal party! And yes, frighteningly enough that can happen if things are not done in a sanitary way.
2. DO YOUR RESEARCH AND THOROUGHLY LOOK EXAMINE THE ARTIST'S PORTFOLIO
With the expansion of technology and social media, it is becoming much easier for people to market themselves as makeup artists. As great as this is, it can also be a little misleading. Just because someone creates amazing makeup looks on themselves, does not mean that they necessarily have practice doing makeup on others. Make sure that the artist has photos of work they've done on a variety of people. You should consider that you, as well as your bridesmaids, all have different skin tones and skin types. The artist should be able to accommodate to each person's unique needs.
Also, make sure that the artist has a similar style to what you are looking for. While many artists are versatile and know how to do many different styles of makeup, some may be better at some styles than others. If you are wanting a subtle, natural look and the artist's portfolio consists mostly of bold, edgy, smoky eyes looks, you may want to reconsider whether or not your vision will align with theirs.
3. HAVE A TRIAL BEFORE THE WEDDING
Setting up a trial before the wedding day is a great way to get acquainted with your makeup artist. You can explain how you usually do your makeup, products that you love using, products that you hate using, etc. It is always a good idea to have inspiration pictures to show the artist, that way they can get a solid understanding of what you have in mind. Although it may cost a little extra to have a trial beforehand, it is worth getting a glimpse of how you will look on your wedding day and having an opportunity to work out any kinks in the routine.
4. IF YOU AREN'T SATISFIED, SPEAK UP!
I know that it may be uncomfortable to tell someone that you aren't satisfied with their work, but don't be afraid to let the artist know if you are not 100% happy with something. Speaking as an artist, it does not hurt my feelings when a client kindly asks for something to be changed. A good artist will understand that everyone has different preferences and making a correction should not be an issue. After all, it is your special day and you shouldn't walk down the aisle feeling anything less than stunning.
5. GET A FACIAL AND REMOVE FACIAL HAIR
Getting a facial about a week before your wedding can ensure that your skin is in its best condition. Removing facial hair, whether it's by waxing, dermaplaning, or using small touch-up razors, will allow for your skin to have a smoother texture when it comes time to apply your makeup. You especially want to consider some type of hair removal if airbrushed foundation will be used. Airbrush foundation can stick to peach fuzz and make it significantly more noticeable.
6. HAVE UNIFORM MAKEUP FOR BRIDESMAIDS
While each bridesmaid has their own personality and style, their makeup on your wedding day may not be the best way to express themselves. A subtle variation here and there won't hurt, but for the most part you will probably want your bridesmaids' makeup to look fairly similar. For example, sticking to pinks and browns on the eyes with a neutral lip color is an elegant and common way of doing bridal makeup. You want them to look beautiful, but you do not want anyone to be a distraction or look out of place during the ceremony and in pictures.
7. RELAX AND HAVE FUN
You've done your research. You've picked out the perfect makeup look. You've hired a makeup artist that you love and are confident in their abilities. Now it's time to sit back, relax, and let them turn you into the gorgeous bride that you were meant to be! Makeup can enhance beauty, but nothing looks better than a smiling, happy bride!
Enjoy yourself and remember that no matter what minor bumps in the road may occur, at the end of the day you are getting to marry the person that you love and share the moment with your friends and family. What could be better than that?!