ShubhList

Questions to ask a wedding makeup and hair artist

Makeup and hair run to a tight clock on the day. The most useful questions are about time: how long each person takes, when the artist arrives, and what happens if the schedule slips.

Book a trial in similar light to the event if you can, and photograph the result indoors and outdoors.

Trial and style

  1. Is a trial included, how long does it take, and can we try two looks?
  2. Can you show photos of your work on skin tones and hair types like ours, in natural light?
  3. Will the same artist who does the trial do the wedding day?
  4. How long will the look last, and what touch-up support is available during the event?

Products and hygiene

  1. Which products do you use? Are they within their expiry dates and in original packaging?
  2. How do you clean brushes and tools between clients, and do you use disposable applicators for lips and eyes?
  3. Can you do a patch test if anyone has sensitive skin or known allergies?
  4. Do you carry options for people who prefer fragrance-free or alcohol-free products?

Timing and logistics

  1. How long do you need for the couple, and for each family member?
  2. How many artists will come, and how many people can you finish in the time we have?
  3. What time will you arrive, what space and lighting do you need, and do you need power points?
  4. Are travel, early-morning starts or stay charged separately?

Money

  1. What does each package cost per person, and are taxes included?
  2. What advance do you need, and when is the balance due?
  3. What happens if you are ill on the day? Do you have a named backup artist?

Get it in writing

  • A written quote on the vendor’s letterhead, email or invoice format, dated, with the event name, date, venue and hours.
  • An itemised list of what is included and what costs extra, so two quotes can be compared line by line.
  • Whether taxes are included in each amount, and whether the vendor will issue a proper invoice.
  • The payment schedule: advance, part payments and balance, with the date each one is due and how it is paid.
  • What happens if you postpone, reduce the guest count or cancel, and what happens if the vendor cannot deliver.
  • The name and phone number of the person who will actually be in charge on the day.
  • A receipt for every payment, including cash, with the date and what it was for.

These questions are planning prompts written by ShubhList, not legal advice. Local rules differ; check anything legal with the relevant authority or a qualified professional.