Wedding Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Makeup Artist for Your Big Day

Photo by Caitlin Louisa

Your wedding day is one of the most photographed days of your life, so choosing the right makeup artist is key to ensuring you look and feel your best. But with so many options out there, how do you find the perfect fit? In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to choose the right makeup artist for your wedding day—plus a few red flags to watch out for along the way.

1. Start Your Search ASAP

This might sound a little unhinged, but start researching before you even get engaged! Wedding makeup artists book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons and long weekends. To ensure you get your first choice, begin your search at least 12-16 months before your wedding date. If you have a dream artist in mind, inquire as soon as you have a date set!

Where to Look

• Instagram – Search hashtags like #softglambridal, #naturalweddingmakeup, #weddingmakeup, or #bridalmakeup(yourcity) to find artists that match your aesthetic.

• Google – Look at reviews and portfolios on professional websites.

• Word of Mouth – If your friends, family, or wedding party have had their makeup done recently, ask for recommendations.

2. Choose a Makeup Artist Who Matches Your Style & Energy

Once you've found a few artists whose work you love, take the time to “creep” their social media and website. Check out their About page and Instagram Highlights. Ask yourself:

• Does their portfolio showcase a variety of looks or one signature style?

• Do they specialize in the look I want—natural, soft glam, full glam, or something else?

• Do they match the energy I want on my wedding day? If you're introverted and want a calming presence, a chatty or high-energy artist may not be the best fit (and vice versa!).

3. Consider Your Budget & Priorities

Makeup artistry is an investment, and prices can vary widely based on experience, products used, and the overall experience offered. A professional makeup artist typically offers:

• A seamless booking and communication process.

• High-end products for long-lasting wear.

• A strong focus on sanitation and hygiene.

• A luxurious, stress-free experience.

Determine what matters most to you—whether it’s price, expertise, luxury, or a combination of all three—and choose accordingly.

4. Book a Trial or Test Appointment

Not all makeup artists offer trials before booking, but it doesn’t hurt to ask! If they don’t offer standalone trials, consider booking them for another event (like an engagement shoot or bridal shower) to see how they work.

During and after the trial, ask yourself:

• Did they listen to my preferences and adjust accordingly?

• Does their makeup application feel comfortable and last throughout the day?

• Did they match my skin tone and enhance my features rather than masking them?

5. How to Inquire & Secure Your Artist

12-16 Months Before: Time to Inquire

If you’re deciding between multiple artists, inquire with each to check availability and pricing. Some may already be booked, while others might not be in your budget. High-demand dates (long weekends, summer Saturdays) fill up fast, so don’t wait too long!

If your wedding is 6-8 months away (or even sooner), don’t put off inquiring any longer—especially if you have a specific artist in mind. Availability can be limited, so reaching out now gives you the best chance of securing someone you love.

Pro Tip: If a makeup artist is booked on your date, ask them for recommendations! Many artists will refer you to someone with a similar style whom they trust.

How to Contact Makeup Artists

Most artists prefer inquiries via their website’s contact form rather than Instagram DMs (which can easily get lost). Once you send an inquiry, keep an eye on your inbox—and check your spam folder just in case!

Once you receive a response, be sure to follow up promptly—makeup artists receive many inquiries and often book on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’ve chosen another artist, send a courtesy email to let the others know. They won’t be offended—it’s better than being ghosted!

Red Flags to Watch Out For

While there are many amazing makeup artists out there, there are also a few warning signs to be aware of:

🚩 Lack of Sanitation Practices – If they don’t use clean brushes, disposable applicators, or properly sanitize products between clients, proceed with caution.

🚩 No Clear Portfolio or Inconsistent Work – If they don’t have a website, Instagram, or portfolio showcasing their work, do some extra research. Ask around and see if anyone you know has worked with them.

🚩 Poor Communication – If they take weeks to respond, are vague about pricing, or don’t send a contract, this can lead to stress on your wedding day.

🚩 No Reviews or Bad Reviews – Always check reviews from past brides. If you see repeated mentions of cancellations, tardiness, or unprofessionalism, take note.

🚩 Too-Good-to-Be-True Pricing – If their prices are drastically lower than other artists in your area, it might indicate lower-quality products, lack of sanitation practices, lack of experience, or a rushed service.

Once You Book

After booking, your artist will provide a timeline for scheduling your trial, how to prepare for your appointment, and what to expect on the wedding day. A professional makeup artist will ensure your morning runs smoothly so you can focus on celebrating!

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect wedding makeup artist takes time, research, and trust, but when you find the right one, it makes all the difference.

• Start early, especially for peak-season weddings.

• Look for experience, professionalism, and a style that matches your vision.

• Trust your gut when it comes to red flags.

Your wedding makeup should make you feel like the best version of yourself—flawless, confident, and ready to say “I do.”

Looking for a makeup artist for your wedding day? Let’s chat! I’d love to help bring your wedding beauty vision to life.