Payment & booking before makeup trial?

I did two trials before booking, I paid $100 for the first one and $80 for the second one. I booked the second artist, and I paid a $100 deposit then the rest on the day of the wedding. I like your makeup for the trial but I think you could use a darker lip color and maybe a lighter foundation? Could you ask her if you could do another trial?

No. I paid for the first & second trial ($80 and $100) and that's it. So it was basically just paying for my hair and makeup to be done, then if I liked it I would move forward with a contract, which I did with the second one. I was able to do a trial prior to booking since I was paying for the trial.

If you afraid you won't like it the day of then ensure you leave enough time in your schedule for a re-do or adjustments. You are paying for a service.. therefore, if you don't like something on your wedding day then you have/need to say something until YOU are happy. You are the paying customer!!! I was happy with my trial, but felt like the lady rushed a bit.. I am sure she will be more tedious on the day of! If need be, maybe schedule another trial.. yes, it's money but you want to ensure you are happy with the end results and not stressing!

Almost everyone I contacted required a 50% deposit to secure the date (some of them were a 50% for ALL services- which would be big money, or some of them were just 50% of the brides price). It's pretty normal unfortunately. The trial is usually to determine how you want the look to be on your wedding day rather than a trial of the artist in general. I would ask her for another trial in order to make sure you feel better about your look. The foundation is not the right colour. Be very specific about what you want and maybe ask to see in the mirror after she finishes each step so you can make adjustments as needed while you go along (i've found makeup artists only show me the FINAL result).

I only had to pay a $50 deposit to book my HMUA, but most of the people I talked to required a 50% deposit. I agree with the makeup advice MrsD gave!

I had to pay a 50% deposit to book my HMUA and then an additional $250 for the trial. It is common to pay something to book the HMUA before the trial.

As for your trial, this is for you and your HMUA to work on the look that you like. Be honest with her and don't be afraid to give her feedback. I agree with PP that the foundation is not the right color for you, a darker lip color would look better, and some powder or blotting tissues to help with the shine would be recommended. But I think overall it will be a good look for you once those few items are tweaked.

Thank you everyone, this has been so helpful!!!

No that's not normal at all. I have 3 very close friends in the makeup industry and I showed them your post before answering it. Do not do that.

The point of the trial is for you to critique her as she goes so you can get the look you want! If you want more lashes, say so! If you want more or less of an eye look, say so!