When you are interviewing a Makeup Artist this is what I’d ask them… I should know, I’ve been one for over a decade!
1. WHAT’S THEIR EXPERIENCE
How long have they been an artist and what’s their training?
This is a MUST because you need to know if they have been trained properly. It’s important to know if they can handle an important event like yours when that day comes around.
Also, with their experience comes training. Training is a huge key when it comes to their professionalism, application, and first and for most… their kit! I’ll get into that a bit more further down.
2. DO THEY HAVE A PORTFOLIO
Makeup Artists’ best portfolio is their own face. How does their makeup look? Although this isn’t the best source because some of the best artists out there don’t wear any makeup at all, it is a good reference to start with, if they do.
When I first started out there wasn’t Instagram, so I carried my portfolio around with me. Most likely now they have their portfolio on IG or some other social platform for you to look at. And look at it! Look closely to see how much editing has been done to it. And if you like their looks … Most likely you’ll like them and want to hire them.
3. WHAT DOES THEIR SCHEDULE LOOK LIKE THE DAY OF THE EVENT
Why is this important? Well, because you want to know how professional they are? Do they already know what their day would look like if you booked them?
As the artist, I would ask the bride, how many clients would I be doing at the event? When does the bride need to be getting into her dress, what time her hair is scheduled to be done and if she would like to book me for the whole day for touch-ups?
I usually booked two hours with the bride herself. I didn’t need two hours with her, but that gave me plenty of time for when she was interrupted… which was ALWAYS!
4. ABOUT THEIR MAKEUP KIT
It’s the most most most important aspect of a Makeup Artist. This is their toolbox. Is their kit clean, organized and sanitized??? Remember… This is going on your face.
I can’t tell you how many times I have been on shoots or done weddings with other artists and looked at their kits… they would be disgusting! I wouldn’t want their makeup or brushes touching my face! They were not sanitary. They used the same lipstick, mascara wand, and brushes from one client to another.
Usually with professional training, sanitation was the first thing we learned and we were graded on throughout the day. I learned how to clean my brushes, how to use one application with products, and how to never cross-contaminate.
When I had a big event with many models/clients, I brought an assistant. They cleaned brushes between every client, that was their only job!
PRODUCTS IN THEIR KITS
Also, look at their products. Do they use a range of lines? They don’t have to carry only Chanel, Dior or YSL, but they better have some of that in there. You are paying for their skills and products. I swear by Dior foundation but looooove NYX Eyebrow Gel (that costs me $5). It’s not always about the price point, but some products are more expensive because they are of better quality.
They need to have a range of variety as well because not every skin is the same. I can’t put MAC foundation on all clients, it does a number on those with sensitive skin. Talk to them about their products and why they use them.
HIRING THE RIGHT ARTIST
There is more to hiring a makeup artist than you like what they can do as an artist. You need to know that they are professional… you need to know if they show up to your event and ON TIME. You need to know that they know their products and what they are putting on your face. And even more so how to apply their makeup without giving you any unwanted infections.
I can’t stress it enough, you are hiring this professional and have the right to ask these questions and be prepared. This will ensure your day is exactly how you pictured it!