Black Makeup Artists - Northern Chicago Suburbs!

Have you browsed Instagram for your area?

View Quoted Comment Hi Michelle! Yes that’s where I’ve started.
Most of what I’m finding is in Chicago - which could
work but would include travel fees (which are almost as much as makeup itself).

Could you try searching salons with make-up artists in St. Charles, Elgin, and Naperville? I think there is good diversity there and may have options. You could even pass by and speak to owners for artists they call in. Or does your own hairstylist recommend anyone they've worked with? You could look at their Insta. You don't have to commit right away, and can book a trial first. I would recommend my own MOA, but she is based in NY/NJ. Best wishes.

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Most make-up artist you find on Instagram will always charge a travel fee. I'm getting married in a different state and had to look on Instagram as well, TG I found one with reasonable prices but she does charge a travel fee. In total I'll be paying $165 for myself and since I'm paying for my MOH it will be an extra $85.

View Quoted Comment Hi Michelle! I appreciate this suggestion and will try searching for salons and talking to artists. I’ve had friends find wedding makeup artists through the MAC counter at an Ulta! I’m from outside the area (Im in Maryland) but we’re getting married there because it’s where my fiancé is from. I’ll be back in March but am hoping to do a trial or two before our wedding in July!

View Quoted Comment That’s real, Lunajay! Those are good prices and I’m definitely willing to pay for travel if I have to! Just don’t want to miss an opportunity in the area if possible.

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Have you booked your photographer? If you're seeking a local Black photographer, once you book them, they might also be able to recommend MUAs they've worked with. That's how I found mine. I'm in the PA/DE area, but wishing you the best!

View Quoted Comment This is a great suggestion! We haven’t booked our photographer yet but will keep that in mind. Planning a wedding is not for the birds!!

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Ah, understood. So I would consider the Sycamore area more western burbs. There is an Ulta in Geneva, IL. But, perhaps Naperville may have the most independent MUA for hire as it's the largest of the towns I listed. I have family members from St. Charles who shop in Schaumberg for large department stores and bridal shops. It is not that far, Chicago is farther. Most make-up artists will charge a travel fee if driving, perhaps by mile, so best to go as local as you can. Best wishes.

View Quoted Comment Thank you Michelle! I’m not from the area (my fiancé is) so even clarifying the location being more western burbs and other nearby larger cities is helpful.

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Happy to help! Don't let the details stress you out too much! Some MUAs also require a minimum headcount before they will travel. Mine required at least 3 people including me, for her to travel to us. I offered services to my two bridesmaids and they accepted. Otherwise, I would have asked my MIL and SIL as backup. If I couldn't confirm at least 3 faces for the MUA, I would have needed to travel to her studio on the day of the wedding. I was trying to avoid that because her studio was at least an hour and a half in the opposite direction of our hotel and venue. So just be sure to ask if they don't tell you.