10 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST DURING YOUR CONSULTATION!

All My years of experience has given me insight into the bridal worlD and I’ve learned that one of the most important parts of working with a client is The initial phone consultation! So make sure you take the time to get all of your questions answered upfront! Here are our 10 most frequently asked questions!

 Q.  What is your style?

A. I love a classic look with a modern twist. What does ‘classic' mean to Me? Think of Audrey Hepburn or Marilyn Monroe, Although their looks were originally from the 1950’s and 1960’s, they are still relevant in todays world! It’s a soft glam look with soft Neutral tones. I want you to look back on your photos in 10, 20 or even 50 years from now and still feel proud of how you looked!

Q.  When should I book my hair and makeup team?

A. Short answer is ASAP! You should begin researching your hair and makeup team at least 6-12 months before your wedding. Once you’ve searched and you’ve found an artist that you’re obsessed with… BOOK THEM! 

Q.  Do you have a minimum?

A. For Brides with a bridal Party, I Require a minimum of 5 services Fri-Sun and on all National Holidays. Mon-Thurs I require a minimum of 4 services. These can be in any combination of Hair or Makeup.

For brides that want a more Exclusive experience, I offer a Bridal package that includes your Hair and Makeup trial, Hair and Makeup on your wedding day and does not have a minimum of services.

Q.  do you charge a travel fee?

A. Travel on your wedding day is included if you are within 30 miles of the SMA studio in Murrieta, Ca. If your wedding is outside of the 30 mile perimeter, I‘d be happy to give you a quote During our consultation.

Q.  Do you require a deposit, how much is it, does it go towards my final balance and is it refundable?

A. I require both a signed contract and a 20% retainer to secure your date. It does go towards your total balance! The retainer paid is non-refundable since I’ve held that date for you and in the process, have turned away other brides that have inquired.

Q.  ASIDE FROM THE SERVICES, WHAT OTHER EXPENSES SHOULD I ANTICIPATE?

A.  I DO MY BEST NOT TO CHARGE ANY ADDITIONAL FEES HOWEVER THE FEES BELOW MAY BE REQUIRED IN THE EVENT THAT A BRIDE HAS ASKED US TO...

1. ADDITIONAL MILEAGE, AIRFARE OR LODGING FOR TRAVEL

2. START EARLY (BEFORE 7AM)

3. ADD ON ARTISTS (SERVICE MINIMUMS NOT MET)

4. STYLE AND PLACE EXTENSIONS.

5. STAY ADDITIONAL HOURS (LOOK CHANGES OR TOUCH UPS) 

Q.  Do I need to do a trial? When should I schedule my trial and what days do you Offer trials?

A. Yes and No… Let me explain! Many brides are destination brides and scheduling a time to do a trial May be difficult for them so it’s not mandatory. With That said, I do highly recommend doing a trial before your wedding. Especially If you are particular about your look or someone who rarely wears makeup. A trial gives you the opportunity to ensure you love your looks ahead of time. This way if any adjustments need to be made, you’ll know in advance and be able to communicate them to Me before your wedding day.

I schedule trials M-F from 9am-2pm at the SMA Studio in Murrieta, CA. I recommend having your trial done 2-3 months prior to your wedding. this is what I love to call “the Sweet Spot!” It’s close enough to your wedding that you have all of your major details planned and your hair is close in length and color to your weddng day but you’re far enough out that you’re not being bombarded with a million calls, texts and emails about those final details. Plus, this gives you the OPPORTUNITY to be fully present, relaxed and enjoy the process!

Q.  What time do we need to start getting ready?

A. I provide a detailed timeline roughly 2 weeks before your wedding date. We base our entire timeline off of your photographers timeline. Generally, each artist needs 45min per bridesmaid/attendees service, 60-75min per bridal service, 30min for setup and 30min for final touchups.

Q.  DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH ARTISTS FOR MY LARGE BRIDAL PARTY?

A. YES, I WORK WITH ROUGHLY 10 ARTISTS on a regular basis THAT HAVE A STYLE VERY SIMILAR TO MINE. DURING OUR CONSULTATION CALL, I WILL CALCULATE HOW MANY ARTISTS YOU NEED BY YOUR TOTAL NUMBER OF SERVICES. TYPICALLY EACH ARTIST WILL DO 5-6 SERVICES.

Q.  What brands do you use in your kit?

A. To provide the very best service I use many different products from multiple brands. The most common brands used are: Charlotte Tilbury, Tom Ford, Dior, YSL, Tarte, Nars, MAC, Temptu, Smashbox, Makeup up Forever and many others.

XO,

Michelle

Photo 1: Erin Kaiulani Photo
Photo 2: Elyana Ivette Photography
Photos 3 + 6: Jarrod J Photo
Phots 4 + 5: The McFarlands Photography
Photo 6: Ashley Bee Photography