Do I have to do a trial run?
Although it is not required, trial runs are highly recommended. During this appointment, we can nail down your look ahead of time so that you can just sit back and relax on the wedding day. Trial runs allow you to wear the makeup for the day to determine if there any changes that you would like to make for the big day. Ideally, I like to schedule trial runs on most Mondays and Wednesdays at a studio in Lone Tree.
When should I schedule my trial run?
I recommend that we schedule your trial run about 2 months before the wedding. Bring any makeup inspiration photos that you may have. It’s always a great idea to wear white if possible (if you’re wearing a white dress). It’s an added bonus if you can schedule your hair trial, dress fitting, or an evening out on that day as well. Plan on about an hour for the trial run.
How long should I plan on for makeup on the wedding day?
Typically, I plan an hour for the bride, 30 minutes each for everyone else, and for medium to large parties, 30 minutes at the end for touchups.
Will you stay for touchups throughout the day?
Because I use long wearing, waterproof makeup with the help of primers, setting powders, and setting sprays you will not need it. I have had a clients tell me that on the wedding night, they fell asleep with their makeup on and the makeup looked the same the next day. (Not recommended for your skin, but I get it. It’s a long day). I have a few clients each year, that still want me to stay for touch-ups after the ceremony and in those cases, I charge an hourly rate.
Will you bring a second artist?
Because I have been doing makeup for over 20 years, I have the timing down to a science. I can accommodate parties of 10 or less on my own. In the rare cases that you have a larger party than that or if your getting ready time is extremely limited, I will bring a second artist. Given my experience, you will not run behind because of makeup services. I pride myself on staying on or ahead of schedule.
How do I secure my date?
Your date is secured with a signed contract and paid retainer.
When should I book my date?
Typically for weekends (especially Saturdays) during wedding season (Spring though Fall), I can book out a year in advance. Please reach out as soon as you are ready to secure your date.
What if I want to do a trial before booking?
A few clients a year want to do a trial before booking. I recommend looking at my portfolio and reading my reviews to find if we are a good fit. If you still would prefer to do a trial before booking, we can do that but remember the date is not officially reserved until the contract and retainer is received. Because this “pre-booking” appointment is most likely scheduled far in advance, I recommend that we schedule a trial run about two months before additionally.
Do you offer airbrush?
I do not offer traditional airbrush makeup as in my opinion it brings out texture (pores, fine lines, dryness, etc.) I prefer traditional makeup as I can achieve a long wearing, flawless look that lasts all day without bringing out texture.
Do you do hair as well?
I only do makeup, not hair. I do have great hairstylists that I work with often and I am happy to share those recommendations when you are ready to book your services.
Do you travel to do makeup?
Absolutely, I travel on location for weddings and other makeup services as well for the most, convenient luxury experience possible. A travel fee will be assessed based on your location.
What makeup products do you use?
I have a wide range of products from a variety of trusted brands in my kit. My favorites include Tarte, Anastasia, MAC, Laura Mercier, NARS, Armani, Charlotte Tilbury, etc.
Are you comfortable with doing makeup on different skin tones and ages?
Absolutely! Given my experience, I am comfortable doing makeup on all ages, races, and genders. I celebrate and welcome diversity in my clients. My kit is stocked with colors and textures for all clients.
Do you recommend false lashes?
Yes! I recommend false lashes for most clients for special occasions and photography. They really take your makeup to the next level and make your eyes pop. I typically use strip lashes for most clients (occasionally I apply individuals or clusters). I stock my kit with a few favorite styles (light, medium, and dramatic) to suit a variety of looks. There are a few brides each year that don’t choose lashes (because they are blessed with amazing lashes or they are extremely natural brides) and that is totally ok.
What forms of payment do you accept and when should I pay?
For weddings, a retainer is due to reserve your date. The trial run cost is paid on the day of your appointment in card or cash. Final payment is due 14 days before the wedding. I will email you an invoice for the retainer and final payment.
What is the best way to contact you?
Email is the preferred method of contact. Filling out the contact form on my website is great as well. I am quick to respond (within 24-48 hours or sooner in most cases). If I don’t respond within that timeframe, please try again as we know technology isn’t always predictable and odds are that I never received your message.
How do I determine the best start time for makeup?
For non-bridal services, plan on 45-60 minutes for makeup. When planning your wedding day, find out from your photographer what time you all need to be ready, and based on your headcount we will back track to determine the best start time. (60 minutes for the bride, 30 minutes each for everyone else, and 30 minutes at the end for touch-ups).
What other services do your offer?
In addition to makeup applications, I offer one on one and group makeup lessons. I also offer lash (lash lifting and tinting) and brow services (waxing, shaping, tinting, and lamination).
How should I prep my skin before the wedding?
Your makeup will look it’s best when the skin underneath is properly cared for. Leading up to the wedding and especially during the week of your wedding, please hydrate (moisturizer, masks, sheet masks, etc.) and exfoliate (scrubs and chemical exfoliants). This will allow the skin to look less “makeup-y.” With that being said, please do no try advanced skincare services that you have never done before too close to the wedding date. You never know how your skin will react.
What do you need for set up?
I love to apply makeup in natural light so usually I set up in front of a window if possible. A table (to place my ridiculous amount of makeup) and a tall chair is ideal.
Are you comfortable doing all types of makeup?
Yes, over my long career, I have had clients who have never worn makeup to those who want a very dramatic look. Please review my portfolio to see examples of my work. I will consult with you to give you my professional recommendations, but also be sure that I take your preferences into account. My goal is to make you look and feel your absolute best.