When I first started my makeup career back in Greenville SC, and was learning how to market myself, I remember this woman reaching out to me asking for my prices. After I sent them, she told me that she was disappointed, and that I I should be giving makeup trials for free, because as she reasoned, she didn’t even know if my work was any good or not. I replied back as kindly as I could, but i’ll be honest, I was confused.

That night I began researching like crazy, looking at makeup prices all over the country. I realized that my prices were actually quite competitive, and that professionals rarely, if ever did trial sessions for free. What I did discover is that some are confused on what makeup trials are, how it benefits them, and how it is worth every penny. So I’m here to give you as much information as I can fit into a blog post about Makeup Trials.

Makeup Trials, What are they?

This is a service primarily booked by brides, or before a major event. A trial helps you figure out your preferences, exactly how you want your makeup and hair to look the day of your event. Your Makeup Artist, should take into account your skin type, coloring, outfit, and personality to help you decide your perfect look, which is then recorded in detail to be replicated on the day of your event.

An advantage of getting a trial done is that you we can talk through your entire look. The day of your wedding or event can be super hectic, and you don’t need to spend unnecessary time in a chair. Hair and makeup takes a lot of time already. A lot of brides have a look in their mind, or an image they want to copy, but your face shape, coloring, and undertones may change the way it looks on you, and you may want to change something or try something different altogether. These conversations take time, and it’s so much easier to have them in a relaxed environment verses on the day of the event.

How Can You Get The Most Out of Your Makeup Trial?

The Artist, can always suggest what they think would best highlight your already stunning features, but they should love when clients have opinions too! Bring reference photos, make a Pinterest board, or simply share your thoughts. This is your day, and you should look exactly how you want. By now, you will have probably already seen your artists work, perhaps on social media. If you’ve seen something that you like, point it out. From there, your pro can create a look that’s exactly what you want. Also, here’s another pro tip, book your trial on an evening where you can make plans to go out, you’ll leave with stellar makeup and/or hair, take advantage of that!

When Should I book My Trial?

Some clients like to book a few weeks in advance. I usually recommend a month or two, that way there’s no stress. I don’t recommend doing it too close to your wedding, the weeks leading up can be hectic enough, and it may be too late to get the exact time you want on the day of the event itself. Artists book up quick, especially on weekends, so I recommend getting your spot before its gone. 

So Is a Makeup Trial Worth it?

Simple answer: Yup! This is your special day, it should be stress free, and just perfect. Makeup trials are a great way to help this all happen and come together. And happy wedding day!