Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the best way to book you? Do you require a deposit?
A: See how to Make an Appointment.
Q: What kind of makeup do you offer?
A: I offer professional makeup application for all occasions, though my specialty is a natural camera-friendly look for photo shoots.
Q: What's the best way to ensure that I get the look that I want?
A: Descriptions are very subjective, so I've found that inspiration photos are the easiest way for me understand what look you want, especially if you're trying to achieve a very specific look. I will do my absolute best to make sure you look your personal best.
Q: What type of products do you use?
A: Some specific items I use can be found under the In My Kit section above. I use a mix of products, but primarily professional grade products that must be special ordered.
Q: I have skin allergies. Can I still get my makeup done?
A: Even "hypoallergenic" products can cause unforeseen breakouts. There's no way to predict it, and you take that risk in using any new product. However, if you have a known skin allergy to a specific product, please inquire beforehand and I will be happy to give you a list of the products I plan to use on your makeover, so that you can make an informed decision of what you can and cannot have on your skin.
Q: How should I prepare for a makeover?
A: It's best to arrive to the makeover with clean skin (no makeup). Do your skin routine well before the makeover so your skin is rested and ready for makeup. Mild cleanser, a gentle exfoliation on face and lips, your favorite facial toner, and a light moisturizer are all you should need. Any facial hair grooming should be done well beforehand so you will not be applying makeup to freshly tweezed or waxed skin. If you're getting hair styled, I prefer dry, day-old hair especially for updos.
Q: What kind of hairstyling services do you offer?
A: First and foremost, I am a makeup artist, though I've taken private hairstyling lessons to cater to clients that may not want to seek a separate hairstylist. This being the case, I offer light hairstyling, basic updos, and on occasion specialty updos upon request. If you would like to get an idea of what I can offer you as far as hairstyling, please see here. If you're looking for more intricate styling, or have hair that is challenging to style, I am happy to offer you a list of recommended hair specialists based on your needs.
Q: How long does it take for you to do makeup and hair?
A: Time it takes to do makeup and hair depends on a variety of circumstances such as the clients hair and skin type, look requested, the conditions of the location I am doing makeup in, etc. All that aside, my average for makeup is an hour, and that's with me being quite meticulous. Avant Garde makeup can take considerably longer. Hair is usually about a half hour to an hour depending on style. For both hair and makeup for an average photoshoot, expect about an hour and a half, and up to two hours for both hair and makeup for special event styling.
Q: What kind of home set-up do you have?
A: I work out of my home on Camp Foster. I've carved out a small, modest, but functional area that I can now dedicate to my makeovers. I hope to keep building upon it to make it my dream workspace some day! Since I do work from home, I will on occasion have my family with me, but they usually have little interest in what I'm doing in my special little workspace;P.
Q: I know a girl down the street that will do my makeup for $20. Why do you charge "so much"?
A: While I definitely feel that my prices are on the very reasonable end of professional makeup application, there are many that are still quite hesitant to invest that much to get their makeup done professionally. I invest in high-quality cosmetics specifically formulated for professional use, many of which are special ordered. I constantly test commercial products and throw out ones that don't meet my standards or have expired, and take the time to give you a beautiful makeup job with staying power. I also keep products in stock to accommodate virtually any skin tone and coloring. I am certified, and base-approved, and I have been trained in and continue to practice very sanitary makeup application for your safety and health, which means taking the time to clean and sanitize tools and makeup in between use, as well as order the appropriate cleaning/sanitizing product. I am also very diligent and prompt in my correspondences with clients, as well as those I collaborate with, and take the time to make sure I am always adequately prepared for each job. I take each job seriously, as I realize that you are paying your hard earned money to look your best for an important occasion. I have never canceled or flaked on ANY job, paid or volunteer. I'd also like to think I'm a fun person to be around... but that part you get for free! ;)
Q: I'm thinking about having you come to me instead of going to your location on Foster. What kind of accommodations will you need, and how much do you charge for travel fee?
A: I will travel to your location for a fee depending on distance, but also require a service minimum depending on your location. I also expect parking within walking distance to the site, and this will need to be complimentary or paid for by the client. In extreme weather conditions, I will not offer my services outdoors, and will therefore require an indoor, temperature-controlled set up. A table and chair set up next to natural daylight would be the most ideal situation, but if that is not possible I can provide those things upon request to ensure you have the best and most comfortable makeover. I also require an electrical outlet for any hair styles that will require heat styling. You can view my most updated info on service minimums and travel fees for out calls here.
Q: What's the best time to schedule my appointment?
A: Knowing that hair can take up to an hour and that makeup can take up to an hour, please schedule accordingly and account for transportation time and traffic. A little earlier is better so you don't feel rushed. I can provide you with some touch-up items upon request to take with you so that you can freshen up right before your event as well.
Q: What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?
A: Life happens, as do emergencies, so I am quite understanding if you need to cancel or reschedule. As a courtesy to my business and other clients, please let me know ASAP so I can fill your appointment slot, or use my time more productively. If you have booked an appointment for which you have already paid a deposit, it will be refundable as long as your appointment is over a week away. If your scheduled appointment is less than a week away, your deposit will no longer be refundable.
Q: What if there is an emergency and you have to cancel?
A: Again, I've never had to do this thus far, and I hope to keep it that way. I keep all clients' contact information and will notify you ASAP, and provide you a list of other makeup artists that may be able to accommodate you instead, in the very low likelihood that this would occur.
Q: Can I bring my kids or somebody with me when I get my makeover?
A: You're welcome to bring a friend or escort to your appointment. As far as bringing children, it would probably be more comfortable for you to not have to watch your children while you're getting a makeover, but I understand that you may not always be able to arrange for childcare, so I welcome them as well. Please note that I cannot be responsible for them though, so use your best judgment as to whether or not you will be able to control them while you are in the makeover chair.
Q: I don't like the makeup or hair you did on me. What now?
A: Makeup and hairstyling is an art, and like any art people have their own interpretations of beauty. While I'm happy to boast a high customer satisfaction rate with my work, but I am very realistic in accepting that sooner or later there may be a customer that may not be happy with their makeover for one reason or another. I take great pride in what I do, but even more pride in having happy clients! Please communicate your concerns with me. Most things are quite easily fixable if you let me know.
Q: I notice you post pictures of your work on your website. Will you be posting mine as well?
A: I respect your privacy and confidentiality as my paying client, so therefore I will not post anything on my page without your permission. The exception will be TFP/TFCD gigs and free collaborations in which free use of images for advertising purposes is usually the purpose and nature of these collaborations to begin with. You, however, are more than welcome to post any pictures of yourself on my page, as well as tag yourself to let the world know how even more beautiful and fabulous you are after my makeover! This is welcome and appreciated. =)
Q: I'm interested in collaborating for a TFP/TFCD gig. Would you be interested, and what are your expectations?
A: I'm always up for a good collaboration for the sake of showcasing my work, practicing new techniques, and networking with amazing talent out there! However, my time for TF gigs is limited, so I may not be able to accept all invitations for collaborations at the moment. =( For TF gigs I do prefer the following conditions - indoor studio setting, model with a unique look not already in my portfolio, new innovative concepts that will showcase my makeup, and a morning start time. Any photographer I've worked with will tell you I put my all into these collaborations, will stay to assist and touch up, etc., so I expect the same amount of effort from all parties involved. I also expect access and free use of high-quality headshots (at least 3 per look) that showcase my work, suitable for a printed portfolio, as well as web versions, that I can add to my online portfolio. Please take the time to tag/link me in any work of mine that you post, as I will do the same for you! =)
*Special Note to Budding Artists/Hobbyists* - If you are a budding photographer or model in the industry that would like a professional makeup artist for your photoshoot (that may not necessarily produce strong or unique images for my portfolio), please contact me so we can negotiate reduced rates for test shoots. A professional makeup artist can contribute greatly to the outcome of your photos, and I realize that in the beginning of your careers you may not be able to afford one. What can I say? I have a soft spot for those who seek to learn and better their craft in this industry! Thank you for your interest in working with me!
