Kate Roxby Make-Up Artist & Hair Stylist

Kate Roxby Make-Up Artist & Hair Stylist

I would recommend asking your hair and makeup artist the following questions:

How long will you require for services to be completed on the day?

Will you be bringing any additional artists to assist you and will this incur additional costs? (This is helpful if you are on a strict timeline and want to reduce hours of preparation).

What products do you use? (Only if this is important to you - some brides like to ensure they are matched with artists who chose cruelty free products for example)

How long have you been working as a bridal hair and makeup artist? (This is an important one to ask, as weddings are very different to special occasion bookings - artists should be well equipped in how to schedule timing of the day, able to work cohesively with other vendors, supply a range of products that suit a vast range of skin/hair tones/types, create looks that are designed to last).

What are your contingency plans in the case that you are no longer available (this could be due to Covid or other reasons) - will you assist in finding a replacement artist of the same calibre?

Kate Roxby Make-Up Artist & Hair Stylist

Longevity and photographic quality is the key when it comes to great wedding makeup. Longevity is not only reliant on high quality products (including a great primer that is suited to your skin type), but great skin care and preparation in the lead up to your wedding can't be underestimated. I always recommend to my brides to see a reputable beauty therapist months before their wedding to address any skin concerns. Exfoliating your skin regularly (and especially the week of your wedding) will ensure your makeup lasts as long as it can. Moisturising is the same - to avoid your makeup clinging to any dry pieces of skin, you want to make sure your skin is hydrated (exfoliating will also maximise the benefits of moisturisers and serums). Your beauty therapist will be able to recommend a skin care routine that is suitable for your skin. 

Also, its important to note the types of foundations used for photography. Thanks to technology, makeup has come a long way and doesn't necessarily need to be layered on, however, mineral makeups and makeup with a high spf factor can cause 'flashback' in photos, making your face appear white. A good makeup artist will know this, and will have a range of foundations that are perfect for photography (and your skin type - one foundation certainly does not fit all!)

I hope this helps!

Kate Roxby Make-Up Artist & Hair Stylist

Generally, most makeup artists are freelance artists, so when you make a booking your makeup, you are booking with that artist, especially if you are having a trial with a particular person. All brides who make a booking through me are looked after solely by myself, however for larger weddings, my team may look after the bridesmaids and mother, as well as mother of the groom. If you are booking through a salon or makeup brand company such as MAC, I would enquire as to what their terms and conditions are, as they may have staff who leave, and may be replaced by another team member. Be sure to look at reviews of the artist to ensure their professionalism, as well as their artistic talents. I hope this has helped.