The speed of replies to your emails and/or the makeup artist's telephone manner and willingness to answer your questions will give you many indicators about their customer service skills commitment to client satisfaction and interest in you as an individual. Remember not only is the makeup artist someone entrusted with the responsibility of beautifying you, but also someone with whom you have to spend the last hours of your single life with, they should be someone who can empathize with you, put you at ease and someone whose company you can enjoy. If your questions have been satisfactorily answered and the vibe feels right, then proceed to book yourself a trial

The Makeup Trial
A makeup trial is an essential part of the selection process and the proof of the pudding of his/her skills. This should be scheduled ASAP so that you can see how well their magic works on you. Schedule a trial either at your home or the artist's salon or studio and ask the makeup artist to email you a written confirmation of the date, time and fee, as well as a checklist of any items that you should bring with you.

Prior to the trial, if you have selected your lengha and jewellery bring these with you so that your makeup can be coordinated accordingly. If your outfit is still being made, bring along a fabric swatch so that the makeup artist can have an idea of the colours she has to work with. If you have not yet chosen your wedding outfit, an experienced makeup artist will be a treasure trove of advice and will help you create your total look.

Do plenty of research in advance and bring along plenty of images of looks that appeal to you for various functions so that the makeup artist can get an accurate idea of what you are trying to achieve,

Turn up at the appointed time. MUA's are busy, many of them with young families, they will appreciate your courtesy and punctuality and will have more time to devote to discussing your needs. You may also like to bring a friend or relative with you for a second opinion.

Go to the trial absolutely natural, don't wear any make-up. Mention any skin allergies and your sensitivity to any products. If you are used to a certain foundation or cosmetic then carry it to the trial session.

• Pay attention to hygiene, ensure that the make-up artist washes their hands before touching your face and check to see whether all make-up brushes have to be clean and sanitized and that the makeup artist uses fresh sponges, tissues, disposable wands for eye-make-up is crucial.
• Tell the artist what kind of looks you have in mind. Give him or her all the information about your preferences and this will help the make-up artist work according to your requirements. Work with your Artist i.e. if you disapprove of any product or method, say so. It's your face and you must ensure nothing goes wrong.
• This session helps to know how much time the make-up will take. Thus on the final day the make-up artist can start well in time and be on schedule for the wedding. It also helps the artist in determining your skin tone and sensitivity to any products that she may use.
• After make-up has been applied on you - a digital photograph must be taken. The camera can reveal flaws very easily and thus to avoid any unwanted surprises its best to put on make-up and photograph yourself with a digital camera to see how you look and if you require any changes.
• A good make-up artist will understand your skin tone, apply the right shades of make-up on you. Most importantly he will listen to your ideas also and blend it with his skills to your best satisfaction.
• Ask if your make-up would require any touching up after a while and whether this would incur any extra charges.
• Do not be pressurized into making a decision and booking your makeup artist on the spot unless you are 100% delighted with the results and don't need time for reflection or to get second opinions.
  

After The Trial - Signing On The Dotted Line
Once you are satisfied with the results of your trial and have chosen the perfect makeup artist for your needs, its time to seal the deal, sign a contract and pay a deposit to secure your booking. Ensure that you understand all contract conditions and that it covers the following points

• A written guarantee that the MUA who has done your trial will be the person who does your makeup on the day (s) of your wedding
• A clear itemization of the costs and fees involved, including transport costs, makeup re-touches and any extras such as hair styling, Mehndi, nail art and bridal dressing
• Ensure all deliverables are itemized in the contract including the time, date and venue.
• Ensure that contract terms cover you in the event that your make up artist shows up late on your wedding day or doesn't show up at all.
• Check that your make-up artist is insured. That way, if the worse does come to the worst and you end up claiming for damages, their insurance can adequately cover the costs. Ask to see a copy of their public liability insurance certificate if you are in any doubt.
• Get a clear payment schedule that shows an itemization of any trial fees and deposits paid and the remaining balance owed.
• Insist on receipts for all cash payments
• Lastly ensure that the contract is signed and dated by both parties.

Professionally done make-up makes you feel pampered and look radiant. It's the best way to bowl over your husband-to-be. Lastly, be as natural and happy as possible and celebrate the most magnificent event of your lifetime.

Article By Faces By Avina ~ www.facesbyavina.com
Contact Avina on 07961 436 449 or email them at info@facesbyavina.com