6 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR HAIR AND MAKE-UP ARTIST

1. What’s your background and how many weddings have you done?
If you want to use a professional on your big day, get to know her before you book. “Ask her if she has a website,” says Y&YW beauty editor Sophie Qureshi, “as it’s an indication of professionalism.”

Don’t be afraid to ask for references from previous weddings. The stylist’s portfolio will give you an idea of her versatility and style. A good hair and make-up artist should be trained and have experience in bridal hair and make-up, and possibly make-up for photography (colour and black and white).

Tom Tsang, a Vidal Sassoon senior stylist who’s just opened his own salon, JLT, in London, says training and commercial experience are crucial. “You want someone who has experience of weddings and fashion shows. They’ll come armed with a wide range of ideas, will know what kind of products to use and be skilled at putting up hair with veils and accessories.” 

2. What’s the total cost and what does this include? 
Are you being quoted for hair and make-up? Does it include a trial run? Can she do your bridesmaids and mum too? “Make sure you know prices per head as costs easily mount up,” says Wedding Bible author and wedding organiser Sarah Haywood.

It’s vital that you take an active role when meeting your stylist – discuss what you like and dislike. Ask how many trials the cost includes and how long each one is. Then confirm all the details in writing and cover everything – even if it feels like you’re pointing out the obvious!

3. What happens at the trial? 
“Take a picture of your dress to the first consultation as well as any headpieces, tiaras or combs,” says Tom Tsang. “It’s essential for your stylist to see your overall look. The dress neckline will play an important role in determining the final hair and make-up – a high-necked dress looks better with a sweeping up-do, for example.”

“Also, take a snap of the different looks your stylist comes up with, making sure you get every angle so you can have a think at home about which look you like best,” advises Carole Hamilton.

If you’re happy with the trial, confirm that the same stylist will do it on the actual day. If you’re not happy, don’t feel you and the stylist share the same vision, and want to cancel, address the problem as soon as possible. Just remember, you might well lose your deposit.

4. Where will it take place? 
Mobile hair and make-up artists usually come to your home, but if your stylist does have a salon, check that she can do out-of-salon consultations. “But remember it’ll cost a salon-based stylist more to come to your home as they’ll have to add on travelling time,” saysSarah Haywood. 
 
5. How long will it take? 
“I didn’t plan my wedding-day morning enough,” says newlywed Natalie Tyson. “I ended up having my hair and make-up done after the bridesmaids and felt really flustered. Looking back, I should have scheduled each person an appointment.”

Remember, the more of you there are, the longer it’ll take, and up-dos take longer than a blow-dry. “If there are six of you, avoid an 11am ceremony or you’ll have to be up at 4am!” says Sarah Haywood.
Book several stylists so you can all be styled at the same time and allow at least 45 minutes each for hair and make-up. 

6. What happens if you can’t make it on the day?
What insurance will compensate for a no-show? Cash is no help when you need a make-up artist! Ask your stylist to confirm everything’s OK the day before. “Most professionals will have someone they can call upon in an emergency,” advises Sarah Haywood.