5 Reasons to Hire a Pro

One of the most baffling things that I, and other working artists in the bridal industry, often find is that when faced with budget constraints, the first vendor a bride cuts is the makeup artist. Perhaps it is because I have the unique perspective of knowing the value of a great makeup artist, but I cannot wrap my mind around the notion of Do(ing) It Yourself - sure, I can understand DIY flowers (who remembers them, anyway?) or DIY invitations... but, makeup? It's a different beast.

Here are 5 (of innumerable) reasons to hire a professional makeup artist for the big day:

1. I understand color theory. There's more to the application of makeup than slapping globs of concealer over a blemish. Are you like me and have sensitive red skin? Do you have purple under-eye bags? No worries - I don't cover up these flaws; I correct them.

2. Avoid floating-head syndrome. (sigh) This is what happens when your foundation isn't matched correctly. Ya know, when your face is 4 ghastly shades lighter than your neck. I have a firm understanding of skin undertones, contouring, and highlighting - no white masks, here.

3. My products are camera-ready. Really. There is a difference between the products you find at your local pharmacy and the products in my kit. Most salon/retail products will not photograph well. In fact, go grab a foundation from your drugstore. I promise that what you see in person and what you see in a picture will not be the same thing. Everything in my kit is tried and true (not just by me - there's a reason that other professional makeup artists around the world use the same products) to not only look amazing in person but to also photograph beautifully. How much are you spending on that wedding photographer, again? Oh, and on whom will all eyes be all evening? ;)

4. My products are meant to last. You're going to cry during the vows. It's okay to admit it. You're probably going to sweat, too. And if you're like me, you're going to get oily. And you're going to suffer all this for hours. But here's the good news: my products stay put - from the first kiss to the last dance.

5. Do you really want to add another thing to your to-do list? It's your wedding day! Once you walk down the aisle, you're going to be moving nonstop. Relax, sit back, and let me take care of you and your bridal party before the festivities begin. It's really not worth the stress of DIY. Trust me. I've been a bride, too. 

Congrats on your engagement and happy wedding planning - here's to being a flawless bride!