I see you have questions…

Great! A little skepticism is healthy. Here are some of the questions I get the most:

BOOKING

SO HOW DOES IT WORK?

Once you get in touch, I’ll respond to your inquiry via email(you're probably reading this because you already did this part -- NICE) and will ask you to provide some days/times that work best for a phone consultation to we can get to know each other a bit better. We’ll chat about your wedding, your makeup wants and needs, the logistics of your wedding, and whole bunch of other stuff that's important to consider. I’ll answer any questions you might have about the process and the products and the looks and we’ll probably talk way too much but it’ll be fun so you probably won't mind. After the call I can send over a contract and invoice for you to check out before making your decision.

When you're ready to move forward, I’ll finalize a formal contract and invoice and send them over to you via your client portal. You’ll initial and sign the contract and submit your 40% retainer payment(you can do both directly through the portal) and then we’re in business! There are some additional forms in the client portal but you can fill them out later. You'll reach out to me when you're ready to schedule a makeup trial we'll pick a date, execute the trial, nail the look down, and nail it again on your big day! Okay, there’s slightly more to it than that...

Once we perfect your look(s) at your trial, I will take a bunch of photos for reference and then I build a face chart with the products and colors I used so that I can precisely recreate the look at the wedding. You'll send me any notes you have on how the trialed look held up and any changes you might like to make on the big day. I'll keep these notes in your file.

Leading up to the date, I’ll work with you or your planner, your photographer, and your hair stylist to coordinate a schedule that keeps you on track and stress-free. At the wedding, I'll arrive a bit early for setup and begin promptly as scheduled. Once everyone is done, I'll do some touch-ups if they're necessary, leave you with a touch-up kit, and then I’ll hit the road unless you’ve booked services that keep me on-site for retouches and/or additional applications throughout the day. That’s it!

HOW DO I BOOK A DATE?

In order to officially reserve your date I will need a signed contract and a retainer of 40% of your total services. The final balance on the invoice is due one month prior to your wedding.

You can e-sign your contract and pay your retainer/invoice directly through the client portal. I accept all major debit and credit cards as well as checks or cash. I prefer not to use Venmo for larger invoice payments but I do accept it for one-off trial payments or tips.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A TRIAL?

Trials are mandatory for the client and are included in the bridal pricing for a good reason, I promise. A typical trial usually runs about 90-120 minutes and I prefer doing them in the morning so we can get a feel for how the makeup will wear throughout the day. Trials will take place at my studio in White Plains, NY(about a 30 minute train ride from GCT) unless otherwise discussed. Travel fees will be incurred for travel to non-local trials.

We’ll not only design your wedding makeup but we'll talk about all the aspects of your day that will affect that look. We’ll talk about how you envision yourself as a bride/partner. We’ll talk about the party details — colors, style, time of day, location(indoors/outdoors), etc... If you have a Pinterest board or any photo inspiration for your wedding makeup, we’ll look over it together and discuss how those looks would translate onto your skin tone, type, and facial structure. We’ll start building a look together and we’ll tweak it until it’s perfect. Lashes are included in all packages if you’d like them.

After the trial you can wear your makeup as long as you like. At the end of that day I will ask that you send me some notes on how the look lasted and if you have any changes you'd like to make to it on the big day. I'll keep these notes in your file and take them into account at the wedding. It's normal to have notes on the look and you do not need to re-trial if you're just making tweaks. If you'd like to test out a totally different look then I'd suggest a second trial. The extreme majority of clients only need one trial but I am always supportive of a second trial if it's needed.

CAN I TRIAL BEFORE BOOKING?

Short answer: Yes.

Long answer: Yes -- But your date will remain open until you officially book. If you’d like to trial before booking, I’d highly suggest doing it as soon as possible so that you don’t run the risk of losing your date while we’re awaiting it. The policy here is that, if someone else inquires about your date before you get a chance to trial, you’ll get a 48-hour(or whatever is reasonable) grace period to decide whether or not to officially book before the date goes to the next person.

CAN OTHER PEOPLE HAVE TRIALS?

Absolutely! Anyone is welcome to a trial. Additional trials are $195 each and I highly suggest them for anyone who is nervous about having their makeup done or anyone who is extremely particular about their makeup. My aim is to make sure everyone has peace of mind.

HOW MANY SERVICES CAN YOU ACCOMODATE?

As many as you like!

On my own, I can accommodate up to 6 people before I’d ask you to consider bringing on an additional artist. With the use of additional artists, I can accomodate any amount of people. You can choose to hire a second artist even if you're under six people and would just like to shorten the day-of getting-ready timeframe. I will provide the second artist and you don't have to do any additional work on that. I have a pool of additional artists that I choose from. They all have a similar aesthetic to my own so groups will have a cohesive look. They are all required to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

DO I NEED TO DECIDE ON PARTY SERVICES NOW OR CAN I WAIT?

I definitely prefer booking all services up front so that I can start the administrative process and give my additional artists as much lead time as possible. I do understand that not everyone is ready to make that call right away. If you have to add services on later, that’s okay but it does need to be pretty final by the two-month mark so we’re not scrambling to acoomodate.

WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?

A 40% retainer for total services is due when the contract is signed. The remaining 60% balance is due one month prior to your event date. The full balance must be paid before the event happens. There are a million things happening on your wedding day and it’s far, FAR easier for everyone if this is handled in advance, I promise!

CAN EVERYONE PAY SEPARATELY?

Nope. If your party is paying for themselves, please collect that money yourself and make the necessary payment in one installment, please.

DO YOU HAVE A TRAVEL FEE?

One hour of travel is included in your booking. Beyond that, travel is $75 per hour, per artist working the event. If your event requires travel over two hours one way or will need to begin your makeup applications before 7:00AM, a client-provided accommodation may be required the night prior.

DO YOU HAVE A MINIMUM?

Minimum is client plus three unless we’ve agreed upon another scenario. Always happy to talk things out!

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED TO COMPLETE SERVICES?

Everyone gets a 45 minute slot, with the exception of the bride/client who gets one hour. Grooming appointments and junior maids get 30 minutes. You must send me the names of all applicants ahead of time so I can create a proper schedule and so people know where to be and when.
Here is a sample schedule:

WHEN SHOULD I CONSIDER A SECOND ARTIST?

I typically tell people to consider a second artist with groups larger than six or for schedules that have time constraints. A second artist will cut your getting-ready time in half. Here is a sample schedule with two artists:

WHO GETS SCHEDULED WITH THE SECOND/ADDITIONAL ARTIST(S)?

Whoever has a trial goes with me. Beyond that, it really doesn't matter much. I usually I say the more important people should be scheduled with me and that anyone you know is super particular should definitely go to the second so I don't have to deal with...just kidding. They go to me too.

APPLICATION

TRADITIONAL VS. AIRBRUSH MAKEUP -- WHAT'S THE DEAL?

This year, I have decided to remove airbrush from the menu because I've realized that I much prefer traditional makeup, but I did want to provide a little information on the major differences anyway.

Airbrush is a tool just like any other brush I might use. Not all tools suit all jobs, right? An airbrush uses compressed air to spray a fine layer of makeup over the skin. If you’ve got hydrated, healthy, and youthful skin with minimal lines then airbrush might be for you as it provides a light layer in a sort of blanket-like fashion with a generally matte finish. If you’ve got any dryness, pitted skin, wrinkles, fine lines or texture, I would recommend you stay away from it as tiny particle of makeup tend to get stuck in the textured areas and exacerbate its appearance. Traditional makeup is killer for its wide array of versatile formulas, buildable coverage, and more finish options. I'll spare you the gory details but if you want to hear more about why I don't love airbrush just ask me and then forgive me for taking five minutes to DISCUSS.

Both airbrush and traditional makeups are now formulated for long-wear and they both last effectively through the night. And, for reference, every photo that's in my portfolio today features traditional makeup.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO YOU USE?

I’ve worked for years to build a kit of safe, high-impact, high quality products that have proven themselves time and time again. I do my best to ensure that all products are cruelty-free and ethically sourced, wherever possible. I use a wide variety brands and choose individual products based on performance and client desire over brand or celebrity affiliation. No one brand suits every type of client so I have lots of different stuff.

DO YOU USE "CLEAN" PRODUCTS?

I do not use a ton of products that are brand-appointed "clean" as this is not an FDA-recognized term. I have nothing against "clean" products for personal use but I find that this term is often used to denote the absence of proper preservation systems(often provided by parabens and sulfates, which have decades of valid safety assessments). For professional usage of these products, I cannot take the risk of microbial contamination that could affect my products or clientele. I do, however, know how important "clean" products are to many people and I totally respect that. If you're interested in working together but you only use "clean" products, I am happy to use any products that you provide but I will not be able to guarantee the performance or longevity of the product as I likely will not have worked with them in an event setting before.

WHAT IF I HAVE AN ALLERGY/SKIN SENSITIVITY?

If the allergy/sensitivity is something we can safely work around, then we will. Please notify me if anyone in your party has an allergy to ANYTHING including foods, latex, or brush hair allergies. Many products contain "nutritional" actives and oils so it's always best to give me all the information you can. I have a form in the client portal labeled "applicant info" where you'll fill out information about each person receiving makeup and you can leave additional details about each person's special needs. Let's cover the basics of wedding makeup and allergies:

If you're allergic to shrimp, you're good.
If you're allergic to coconuts or condoms, let's talk.
If your sister-in-law is allergic to all makeup, I can’t help you there.
If your mom is allergic to all makeup except Clinque, I’m happy to put her own foundation on her. *winks*

DO I HAVE TO WEAR LASHES?

Absolutely not. I have falsies that are extremely natural if you’d like to try them. If not, no pressure. Your face, your rules.

CAN I BRING MY OWN LASHES OR GET EXTENSIONS?

Be my guest. I don’t offer lash extensions but I think they’re a great option! If you have specific lashes you want me to put on, just being them with and I'll take care of the rest.

WILL YOU CONTOUR MY FACE? I'M SCARED.

YES. But contour doesn't always mean a big ol' stripe. Contour is simply adding depth and we can do this is very subtle, natural ways. Contour basically just enhances your natural facial structure. You don't need a ton of it but it does help the camera see your structure a little better.

WHAT IF I HATE [insert certain product here]?
I always joke that my job is to give you my professional opinion and then shut up. If you hate something, I'm never going to make you wear it. This is about you, not me. Beauty and makeup shouldn't come with rules. So, yeah, I'll give you my professional opinion if you want it but then my opinion is going to take a backseat to how you feel and what you want. I've had several brides/partners forego foundation. You do you. I'll make it look good and last well.

DAY-OF

WE NEED TO START EARLY -- IS THERE AN ADDITIONAL FEE?

Nope! But you may need to provide an accommodation if I'm traveling more than two hours each way or if the makeup needs to start so early that it isn't safe for me to make the drive. I try really hard to be reasonable about this. I rarely require them but probably should more often.

LISA IS ALWAYS LATE. WHAT IF SHE’S LATE?

Weddings work as well-oiled machines. Every vendor needs to stay on schedule for it to run smoothly.

You and I will build a schedule with all your applicants names on it ahead of time so you can tell Lisa, for example, that she needs to be in the room from 9:45AM-10:30AM. If she misses her appointment, she may not be able to switch with someone and there may not be time at the end of our schedule to accomodate her if everyone needs to be ready by a certain time. Missed appointments are non-refundable. PLEASE ask Lisa to be on time.

I WOKE UP WITH ACNE/BACNE/CHACNE/A RANDOM BRUISE AND I HATE EVERYONE.

IT'S GOING TO BE ALRIGHT. I don't know if you know this but...I'm a makeup artist. I will cover it wherever it is. Don't be embarrassed. I cover this stuff constantly. Your confidence is a top priority. We can ice to reduce the swelling for the cystic stuff before covering.

WHAT’S IN MY TOUCH-UP KIT?

The bride/partner will receive a touch-up kit with a full-sized tube of their lipstick, blotting papers, translucent powder, tissues, Q-Tips, mints, floss and deodorant wipes -- this stuff should keep you fresh all night long.

Everyone else will receive a full-sized tube of the lipstick they choose that day. I come with a palette they can choose from and a literal tackle box of all the said lipsticks to dole out.

SOMEONE HAS A STYE OR SORE. WHAT DO I DO?!

Generally, I cannot work safely on anyone with an open cut, wound, or infection of any sort. With styes and cold sores I'm technically supposed to say no but each case needs to be assessed individually. If I can safely work around something by using disposables or by purchasing a small disposable set of brushes, I will. If someone is sick, they cannot get their makeup done. I know these things happen and I'll do my best if it's safe.

CAN YOU PROVIDE A NEGATIVE COVID TEST THE DAY OF MY WEDDING? CAN YOU MASK UP?

YES. I can definitely provide a negative COVID test the day of the event. Don't be shy in asking. I have continued masking on a regular basis in my personal life and will be doing so at your wedding for the time being. If you have any COVID-related concerns or requests, just reach out. I want you to be as comfortable and safe as possible.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO WORK COMFORTABLY?

I just need a chair and some table space. If your getting-ready location does not have access to these things, please notify me ahead of time so I can bring whatever is necessary. I cannot work in the bathroom. Please don't try to make me work in the bathroom or any unsanitary or dangerous area. I will talk shit about you to my friends. I have a makeup light(needs an outlet) to accommodate all locations but natural lighting is highly preferable. If we can get ready near a window, that’s bomb.com.

Something to keep in mind -- If you’re getting ready in the dead of summer and hair and makeup are happening in the same room, you’re going to be very warm. If your venue has AC, you'll probably want it on. I obviously don't require that but I do always try to mention this to my clients ahead of time because excessive heat is bad for a variety of reasons, including the risk you run in compromising your hair and makeup. That goes for steaming all your dresses in the room after your hair is done too. Just be mindful of the space and how many can be comfortable in it at a time.

[INSERT NAME HERE] STRESSES ME OUT.
SAY NO MORE. Stop laughing, y'all. Everyone's got complicated relationships! Let's be real about this because weddings are stressful days as it is. If your wedding makeup puts you in a room with someone who's going to throw off your vibe, let me know. I'll schedule them after you leave or before you get in so you don't have to worry about it. If they complain you tell them I made the schedule and you had no choice in the matter. If you have a problem with something/someone on the day, let me know and I can ask to clear the room. Always blame it on me. They're never going to see me again and you only get this day once. I'm on your side. Use me.

DO YOU REQUIRE A VENDOR MEAL?

Not unless you've booked me for hourly services that keep me on-site through dinner. If you have, please feed me, Seymour!

WHAT IF YOU TEST POSITIVE FOR COVID/FALL ILL AT THE TIME OF MY EVENT/THERE IS INCLEMENT WEATHER AND YOU CANNOT TRAVEL?

I’m going to be as honest as possible here as these things do happen occasionally in my industry and it’s a very valid question that I think many vendors are afraid to answer. I am still masking in public in my everyday life. I myself am immunocompromised and I take COVID guidelines very seriously both personally and professionally. In the event that I contract COVID or become ill, I will do everything in my power to provide a suitable and safe replacement, provide the replacement with my kit if it’s safe to do so, provide the replacement with my face chart and specific directions for recreating the look we worked on at your trial, and then make myself available to the replacement via phone to answer any questions and approve the final look. If I cannot attend or find a replacement I will refund in full and I will offer to walk you through putting the look together yourself via Facetime/Skype at no cost. If there is inclement weather and it is unsafe for me to travel to the event and I cannot find a replacement who can safely make it to the event, I will refund in full and offer the same FaceTime/Skype coaching services. I will make every safe attempt for me to get to you safely in inclement weather. If a State of Emergency is declared due to the weather, I will stay in close contact with you up until the very last minute before making any judgement calls about traveling safely. I take every clients’s wedding as seriously as I would take my own and I do not make these decisions lightly.

WHAT IF COVID GUIDELINES CHANGE FOR THE AREA MY WEDDING IS IN?

Again, this is a very sensitive and very valid question that is difficult to answer given the risk associated with planning a wedding during the current global health crisis. We’re going to keep our fingers crossed that this is not an issue for you. Should numbers trend upward and your venue is in an area that declares a State of Emergency or that changes the gathering guidelines, I will reassess my presence on an individual basis. If all weddings in the county/state are supposed to be canceled, I cannot come. I can’t do anything illegal. Please don’t put me in a position where I’m expected to. If your wedding follows the guidelines set forth by the county/state, I will assess the situation and ensure my own/my staff/my clients’ safety before making any decisions. Like I said, this is a very difficult situation and I think transparency here is our best option. Keep communication with me as open as possible and I will do the same. If we are approaching your event date and you have any concerns that this may happen and you would like to schedule a virtual lesson with me so I can teach you the look we trialed, I will do so at no extra cost.