Do some searching online, and save pictures of the type of style you are going for. Once you have this nailed down it will be a lot easier to weed out artists that don't specialize in these types of looks. Any professional artist should have no issue with being open that the look you are going for is not their specialty. If you come across someone who says they can do any look, consider this a red flag and keep searching!
2. Do your reference checks.
Once you have created a "short list" of artists that you are interested in conduct reference checks on them. Ask friends or family that have worked with them how it went, check yelp and google reviews, or ask the artist to provide you with a list of references. If the artist has a small percentage of "bad" reviews online, don't necessarily hold that against them if the vast majority of reviews are positive. In this day and age it is all too easy for competitors to create fake usernames and blemish the reputations or other artists.
3. Have a phone consultation.
Call the artists on your now shorter "short list". Some things to discuss during this call is: event date and venue (if you want to artist to travel to you or work outside of normal business hours be sure to ask that they can accommodate this), pricing, years of experience, brand of products they use, what looks they specialize in, and what the process is to secure your date and time. Keep in mind that if you have a difficult time getting a hold of the artist now, that you will most likely continue to have this type of response time. Be sure that you are comfortable when speaking with your MUA, and that they have a professional demeanor; this person will be a key player to get you ready in time and keep your nerves calm on your big day!
4. Schedule a trial.
Schedule makeup trial as soon as you can so that you don't lose the date. Some things to bring with you are: pictures of your dress and jewelry and pictures of the hair and makeup looks you are going for. Your trial is the time to test out different looks to be sure that your vision is being met. An experienced artist should ask you questions to determine your style of makeup and discuss your skincare regimen to ensure you look your best. The trial is your time to be honest! I cannot stress this enough, you have to feel comfortable telling your artist what you do and don't like otherwise you will not get the results you want. You can expect to pay $50-$100 for a trial.
5. Lock them in!
Once you have determined who you want to move forward with, place a deposit and ask for a written contract that outlines all dates, times, and costs associated with the booking. Do not leave any grey areas, and be sure to read over the contract thoroughly.
Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope this is useful information for you!!!
- Navpreet
Owner of Makeup by Navpreet and Experienced Bridal Hair & Makeup Artist