There are plenty of benefits to hiring a professional for many aspects of your wedding. I may be a little biased but I believe hair and makeup are among the most important. I get it, we're all trying to work within a budget and you may want to DIY a few things for your special day but there are a few things to consider.
I have spent 9 years (and thousands of dollars) building my makeup kit. It didn't happen over night and I am constantly researching the best products that will not only make you look awesome in person but flawless in those photographs you've invested in. These photos are going to be on display at your children's weddings, at your 50th anniversary party, and even at your funerals.
A single face of photo friendly, long lasting makeup can cost upwards of $500 at Sephora (hey, you're halfway to Rouge status!) and that doesn't even include the tools necessary to apply them. If you're not someone who's going to wear that makeup every day or donate it to a woman's shelter, you're at risk of those items expiring before you get an opportunity to bust them out again. Have you considered how difficult false lashes are for a beginner? Before your trip to the mall, reach out to some artists in your area and consider the value of their professional experience.
Thinking about heading to a makeup counter? You’re at the mercy of a sales associate who likely has other clients to work with and you can easily go over the allotted time for you to get ready. A client of mine recently went in for a trial and spent well over $400 on products and she wasn't even able to get everything she needed for a full face at that price. The artist was not experienced and because she had to keep serving other clients, the appointment went over by 90 minutes! Fortunately this was just a trial appointment and she was able to secure Amanda Merrell Beauty for her wedding day for far less and return the unnecessary products. Could you imagine being 90 minutes late to your wedding?
A great artist will know the latest techniques and trends and how to implement or avoid when necessary. There are some fads that will fade with time that you don't want all over your wedding photos. We all have that photo from our aunt's wedding in the 80's with the giant bangs and blue eyeshadow! We can guide you on what's going to be appropriate and classic for years to come while still looking modern and beautiful. I'd want my kids looking at my wedding photos thinking I looked like a babe rather than asking what was up with those stripes going down the sides of our noses after an ill-fated attempt at contouring!
We know how to fix all those bothersome areas. I can’t count the number of times I’ve had someone sit in my chair and tell me immediately what they want fixed and I’ve seen it all. Acne, hyperpigmentation, dry spots, sunburns, wrinkles, dark circles, eye bags, oily skin...you name it! Does your 20 year old cousin who loves MAC know how to work on your 85 year old grandma’s face or the bridesmaid of a different race? We do. I have built a truly Global Kit that can accommodate from Nicole Kidman all the way to Lupita Nyong'o and beyond. Rest assured that all of our artists are trained in working on all complexions and hair textures to ensure everyone looks and feels absolutely gorgeous!
Hiring a team of professionals to come to you really relieves a lot of stress. It’s your wedding day. We’ve set the timeline and told you exactly when we’re going to be there...we even show up a few minutes early to ease any lingering anxiety. We set up while you sip champagne and hang with your bridal party. We keep the schedule for the day going to ensure you and your party are ready to walk down the aisle on time and looking fabulous. Before we leave, we do any last minute touch ups and even provide you with a complete touch up kit in case anything should happen after we leave. It really sets the tone for the whole day.