One of the most popular questions I get asked as a Chicago hair and makeup artist is if I think a hair and makeup trial is important. And the answer is, yes! Not doing a trial before your wedding is like picking your wedding dress without trying it on, or booking your venue without doing an in-person visit. Below are four important reasons why I think scheduling a trial is key.
1. You’ll meet the people you’ll be spending your whole morning with!
It is the perfect time to get to know your artist and their skill level. You want to be comfortable with them and make sure they understand the style and vibe that you’re aiming for on your wedding day. There are so many thoughts running through your mind that morning, and the last thing you want to add to that list is wondering if you picked the right artist for you, or going over your schedule because you are still discussing details that could have been discussed during your trial. Meeting your artist will definitely help put any nerves at ease.
Photo: Mindy Leigh Photography
2. You’ll know your options
Your desired look isn’t always going to look the same on you as it does on the model in your inspiration photo. Hiring a professional makeup and hair artist will help you get advice on how certain looks can be altered to fit your face shape or hair type. We may also suggest a couple of options that may work better for you without steering you too far from your original idea.
Sometimes a bride can be very close to achieving her desired looks, but might need a bit of prepping to do before her wedding day. Things like haircuts, extensions, or facials can help prepare a bride for those details that she may have concerns about. As professionals, we’ll let you know what we recommend and give you a timeline for the process.
Photo (above): Daniela Cardili Photography. Photo: (below left): Photography by Lauryn
3. Test New Things
Are you a bride that has never worn makeup before? Never tried airbrush makeup before, and you’re curious to know what the rave is all about? Or maybe you’re the bride who knows that you’ll have a hot summer day for your wedding, and would like to try an up style that you’ve never done before. A trial is perfect way to test and see what you like and don’t like!
For example, we sometimes get the bride that says, “I don’t think I want lashes”, but we always encourage them to just try it! You may end up loving the lash application, and had you not tried it during your trial — you would have not known what you were missing out on!
Photo: Maria Harte Photography
4. Make the Most Out of It
Make the most of your trial by scheduling it on a day like your engagement photos, bridal shower, bachelorette party, a date night, or even your dress fitting! It’s like getting a preview for your wedding day and a glam session for another special event.
Also, try to leave your hair and makeup on for as long as you can. This will help you know how it will hold up for your wedding day, and you’ll be able to give your artist any feedback that they may need to help perfect your look on the day-of.
Photo: Photography by Lauryn