Ten Questions to Ask Your Artist Before You Book
First of all, CONGRATS on your engagement! You already booked your planner, venue, and photographer. Now for the most important vendor, jk but not really, your wedding hair and makeup artists. While other vendors are important, people overlook the fact that you’re going to be spending half of your wedding day with the hair and makeup artists. That hits a little harder than most people think. Now knowing this, you’re going to be a little more picky when it comes to you wedding day look. Here are some good questions to ask your perspective artists. Check out this wedding hair style guide if you’re unsure of what hair style you want for your wedding day.
Where can I view your portfolio?
This is a big one. What does their work look like? Do you see hair/skin texture/features/etc that resembles yours in any way? If yes, then this can be a good indicator if they will be a good fit for you. If no, ask if they have any experience with xyz. There’s a good chance that they do but haven’t been able to update their portfolio yet. Take a look at mine while you’re at it!
What is your specialty?
If you’re looking for a Hailey Beiber inspired bun, it probably won’t be the best idea to go with a bridal stylist that specializes in boho braids or Hollywood waves. If you don’t see a similiar look in their portfolio, don’t be afraid to question them if it is something that they are comfortable doing or have any recommendations for someone else that can.
Do they have a contract?
Signing the dotted line can be a little daunting but it’s for the best. Contracts protect YOU and the artist. It defines all the expectations from each party and it lists out things like the cancelation of a wedding, moving the date, or even adding more services later on. This is a legally binding document after all. Make sure you have all the questions to ask them written down.
Do you have any help?
While my own wedding party was relatively small, I’ve seen an upwards of 11 bridesmaids. Wild but to each their own. It would be nearly impossible to complete services for 12 people in one day, unless you started getting ready at 4 am, and I don’t recommend that at all. If I have a wedding party larger than 6, the bride and five adults, I am going to bring additional help. I don’t know of anyone that wants to spend 7+ hours getting ready on their wedding day.
Can I book a trial/bridal hair preview before I pay the retainer?
This is one of the top questions I get asked. For my business, the retainer must be paid before any preview appointments. The reasoning is that your wedding date may be booked by another bride before your trial date. Your wedding date cannot be guaranteed without a retainer. If you have trial before putting down the retainer, you run the risk of another bride booking your wedding date before you even have the chance to try out your hair style. Other wedding hair and makeup artists may have different policies regarding this question so it’s always best to ask.
Do you travel to me on the wedding morning?
The answer to this question is usually reflected in the service prices. Many higher end artist will travel to your venue on your wedding day. Artist on the lower end of the prices will more than likely have you and your party travel to them. Again, this is something you’re going to want clarification.
Will it be the same stylist for the wedding party?
With Bailee Cribb Hair, whichever artist that performs your preview appointment hair will be the one you will have on your wedding day. I know some artists have a very large team meaning that, more likely than not, it will be two separate artist for your preview appointment and for your wedding day.
What if I don’t have an exact head count of who wants services done?
Many artist will give up to so many months/days to make changes to your service quantities. I allow changes to be made up to 3 months before the wedding date.
What are your prices?
This one is a no-brainer but it still needs to be said. Many people that are planning their wedding are first-timers. If the artist of your interest doesn’t have their prices clearly posted it can raise cause for concern. If you have your heart set on that specific artist, just ask.
Is there a payment plan option?
I can’t think of a single vendor that requires payment in full at the time of booking. If they do, RUN. It’s even more terrifying if they do not have any type of contract in place. The contract should clearly state the payment total, due date, and option of payment forms.
Conclusion
These ten questions to ask should guide you the the bridal stylist/artist of your dreams. Many of these questions are applicable to most types of vendors, also. Make sure to check out the artist’s FAQ page. The answers you seek are probably already there. If not, send over an email with any specific ones you have. The artist will definitely appreciate it and they may even add your question to the list to help other brides. Can you think of any questions to ask artists that I may have missed? Comment them below!
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