How to find the bridal make-up artist/hairstylist that suits you?

Photo (above) by Jef Janssen

1. Start looking early. The best professionals are booked far in advance. After all, a make-up artist and hair stylist can only take care of one bride and suite per morning, especially if they come to you.

2. Schedule your trial make-up and hairstyle well in advance. Most professionals confirm the booking after the trial. If you feel a connection during the trial and you are happy after the trial, then seal the deal. Another tick on your checklist!

*Photo: Bridal make-up: Gleam by Ellen - Photographer: Tijl DM*

3. It is important to make it clear during the tasting session what you like and what you don't like. If you would like something less, the tasting session is the time to adjust things. Don't be shy and let it be known what your expectations are.

4. Be realistic. Do you have pale skin with freckles and red hair? Then the Kim Kardashian look is not for you. If you have insecurities, your make-up artist will never be able to ‘magic them away’. Most importantly, he or she will listen to you and highlight the most unique, beautiful elements of your face so that you shine like the beauty you are!

5. A make-up artist likes to work in natural daylight. Even if you think of the bathroom as the perfect room for preparations, often there is not enough light. Rather opt for the kitchen or possibly a veranda. Or give the choice to the make-up artist, he or she knows what is best in terms of lighting.

6. Be on time and be conscious of your time. If the make-up artist or hair stylist has to wait for someone from the suite or for the bride, this reduces the ‘working time’. The professional wants to do a perfect job and needs the specified time to do so. At 25 minutes, a tip-top makeup cannot be achieved.

*Photo: Bridal make-up: Celien Vanhoutte - Photographer: Nathan Dobbelaere*

7. Serious make-up artists are serious when it comes to hygiene. He or she will disinfect his or her brushes and hands, and work very cleanly.

8. Last but not least... have confidence. You book a make-up artist or hair stylist for her or his knowledge and experience. You're bound to get a stunningly beautiful result!