Two weekends ago, I went to my first hair and makeup trial to test beauty ideas for what I wanted for the wedding day. Unfortunately, the trial went completely south: the stylist came completely unprepared and did not have half the makeup I wanted to see on my face. (For example: pencil eyeliner.)
Because I’m fearful of becoming a Bridezilla, I just nodded with empty, disappointed eyes as she did my hair and makeup. In addition to her lack of makeup, she did a hair style that was the complete opposite of what I wanted. I plan to put extensions in my hair so I could do a half up/half down style. I explained this to the stylist prior to the trial and she said she would bring in clip-ins just to give me an overall idea. However, the day of the trial, she forgot the clip-ins, and instead, gave me an up-do that I could have done better myself.
Now, I understand that communication is important when dealing with wedding vendors. This entire trial taught me just that – and also that I need to better voice what my concerns are. During this trial, I was disappointed, nervous and confused as to what was going on that I wasn’t prepared for her being unprepared. As a result, I had a difficult time trying to explain what I wanted and needed to come to the harsh decision that this stylist would not be the person I choose for the wedding day. (As a side note: the mineral makeup she used gave me an acute allergic reaction that almost sent me to the emergency room!)
So, what have I learned from this as a bride? A few things: First, it’s important that a bride thoroughly explains what she’s looking for on her wedding day. As a general rule of thumb, bring pictures that are exact or close to what you are looking for. (Hopefully, the stylist won’t disregard them and do her own this as she did with me!)
Second, it’s OK to say you don’t like something or to give positive criticism. Saying something like, “I like the overall look but can we move this curl here?†or “I like the initial eye shadow you used. Can you add more color to my eyes so they pop more?†Remember, stylists – just like the rest of us – aren’t mind readers so it’s important to let them know what you do and do not like.
Finally, understand that a hair and makeup trial is a trial for a reason; it’s an opportunity to test the ideas you’re thinking of. So if you’re torn between two or three hair styles, ask your stylist to try each on you, take pictures of the styles and as the wedding day approaches, you can look through the pictures and decide which style looks best on you.
It’s your big day, you want to look your best and there are ways of getting what you want without turning into a Bridezilla or being too shy to say anything because you’re afraid you’ll offend them (aka BeachyBride). Just remember to clearly explain what you want, stay positive and keep your cool.
I want to know! Did you have a bad hair and makeup trial experience? What did you do?
I love this I am a hair & makeup artist, although I’m sorry you had a bad experience you stayed very positive and gave great insight on how a client & vendor should be prepared for a trial. Well spoken I hope the next one went well!
Thank you, Sara! My other trial is on the 19th and feeling really confident that this new stylist/artist will do wonderful. She’s been in constant communication with me and when we hit a minor road bump in terms of the extensions, she offered me a great solution. Such a relief!
All very valuable lessons learned. Don’t be afraid to tell your stylist what you really feel. Most of us wedding hair and makeup artists are professionals who pride ourselves on giving you exactly what you want. And do the trial runs! No bride wants a bad surprise on the day of her wedding.