As a new professional in the world of makeup artistry, you might feel nervous about your first makeup client consultation. Consultation meetings are important, especially for bridal parties, because they let you work directly with the client to create a look that makes everyone happy.
Even if you’re confident in your makeup skills, negotiating details with brand new clients can be a daunting task. However, as long as you’re well organized and prepared to communicate, you shouldn’t worry! Consider the following steps for your first consultation and adapt your process as you gain experience.
You should be paid for your time during client consultations. Once you’ve built a regular client base, you might have repeat clients who are prepared to pay a fee for the entire contract, including the consultation, because they’ve worked with you before and would like to again. For your first client, however, you might speak with them about a fee specifically for the consultation and then discuss payment for the rest of the contract based on the success of that meeting. You’ll both want to get a sense for whether working together feels like a good fit. Either way, be up front about the fact that the makeup consultation is a paid service and set a fair rate that doesn’t undervalue your skills.
Once you’ve planned looks and created face charts, organize your makeup kit. Don’t pack so little that you limit your options and can’t adapt during the consultation. You should, however, avoid bringing things you know you won’t need. You will look very professional if your kit is organized with exactly what you need, plus some alternative product and color options.
1. Plan with the Client for the Makeup Consultation
Of course, you’ll choose a time and place for the consultation that works well for your client. Will you travel to her, or do you have a home office or makeup studio that she can visit? Can your schedule be flexible to work around her busy work week? You should also ask simple questions about what she likes and dislikes in order to plan looks for the consultation. What is her favorite color? Does she know whether she’d prefer a natural or a glamorous look? What are the theme and color scheme of the event? Don’t bombard her with questions, but get the information you need to prepare.2. Set a Rate for Your Makeup Services

3. Research the Latest Makeup Trends
Before the consultation, make sure to read up on the latest products and trends. Is your prom client young and edgy? Research high fashion and avant garde styles that might inspire a look she’ll really like. Is your bride very traditional? Make sure your knowledge of the latest bridal makeup trends is up to par so you can help her choose which subtle changes to the ‘blushing bride’ look will make her feel her best. If there’s a specific color, look, or style that you’d like to show the client, save or print the picture so you can bring it for reference.4. Prepare Face Charts
Planning your looks on a face chart gives you a great visual aid during the consultation. Your client can actually see her options rather than trying to make decisions based on descriptions. Perhaps the choice will be easier if she eliminates an option or two right away by looking at face charts. These also give you the opportunity to practice techniques and blending certain colors before you apply anything to your client’s face. Plan a few looks in various colors, styles, and levels of glamour.5. Prepare Your Professional Makeup Artist Kit

Excellent article! Super helpful!
Great information very helpful.
Dress for Success is very important, adapting to the environment of the job is a good idea!