Wedding Hair & Makeup FAQs

As seen on "My Fair Wedding, My Fair Wedding Unveiled, David Tutera Unveiled and David Tutera's Celebrations

Wedding Hair & Makeup FAQs

Planning wedding hair and makeup comes with plenty of questions. Here's exactly how it works with Fairytale Hair and Makeup.

Getting Started & Trials

Do you provide on-location hair and makeup?

Yes! Fairytale Hair and Makeup is a mobile, on-location team. Our artists travel to hotels, homes, wedding venues and other approved getting-ready locations.

We serve Southern California, Central Florida, Las Vegas, Disney weddings, Catalina Island, cruise weddings and destination events.

Do you offer bridal hair and makeup trials?

Yes. Trials are available for bridal hair, bridal makeup or both. Depending on the artist and location, your trial may take place at your location, the artist's location or another agreed-upon location.

Is a bridal trial required?

No. A trial is highly recommended, but it is not required. Many of our destination brides are unable to have one before their wedding.

If you will not be having a trial, we ask that you send us clear photographs of yourself, inspiration photos and details about your hair, skin, preferred look and any concerns you may have.

What should I expect from my trial?

Think of your trial as a rough draft. It gives you and your artist the opportunity to try your ideas, see how the complete look feels and determine whether you would like to make any adjustments for the wedding day.

Most brides make at least a small change after their trial. Honest communication is the best way to help your artist create a look you truly love.

When should I schedule my trial?

Your wedding date should be reserved before scheduling your trial. Trials are generally held closer to the wedding, once you have a clear vision for your dress, accessories and overall style.

Weekend trial availability may be limited during peak wedding season because our artists are working weddings. We recommend being flexible and scheduling your trial in advance.

Can I bring someone with me to my trial?

We find that trials are most productive when they are kept one-on-one. One trusted guest is usually fine, but too many opinions can make it harder to determine what you truly love.

Will the artist performing my trial also work on my wedding day?

Whenever possible, we match you with the artist who will be providing your wedding-day services. Artist assignments, availability and trial arrangements will be discussed with you before scheduling.

Booking & Payments

What do I need to reserve my wedding date?

A signed contract and a $100 nonrefundable retainer are required to reserve your date and services. A $25 nonrefundable Lead Artist Coordination Fee also applies.

Your proposal is valid for seven days. Your wedding date and artists are not officially reserved until the required contract and payments have been completed.

Why is a contract necessary?

The contract protects both you and your beauty team. It confirms your date, location, services, pricing, fees, timing and important policies so everyone knows exactly what to expect.

We cannot reserve a date, time or artist without a completed contract and retainer.

Does the retainer go toward my wedding-day balance?

Yes. The $100 retainer is credited toward the contracted services. The Lead Artist Coordination Fee is separate and is not applied to the service balance.

When is my final balance due?

Final balances are due on the wedding day. Cash is preferred, and Zelle or Venmo may also be accepted. Payment arrangements and the final balance breakdown will be confirmed before the wedding.

Should I reserve all of my bridal party's services now?

We recommend reserving all services that you know you will need. It is generally easier to add services later, if the artists have availability, than it is to remove contracted services.

Reserving an accurate service count also allows us to assign the appropriate number of artists and begin planning your wedding-morning timeline.

Can I add services after signing the contract?

Services may be added if the artists have enough time and availability. Adding services could require an additional artist or an adjustment to the start time.

Contact us as soon as possible if your service count changes.

Can I remove services after signing the contract?

Services may be adjusted according to the cancellation terms in your contract. Once your wedding is within 60 days, contracted services cannot be deducted.

Another person may take the place of the original person receiving the same service.

Wedding Morning & Timing

How long does wedding hair and makeup take?

A typical bridal-party hair or makeup service takes approximately 45 minutes. Bridal makeup generally takes approximately one hour. Timing may vary depending on the requested hairstyle, hair length, extensions, skin needs and other details.

We also build approximately 15 to 30 minutes of finishing time into the schedule for final touch-ups.

How do you create the wedding hair and makeup timeline?

Your timeline is created using the time everyone must be completely ready, not simply the ceremony time.

We consider photography, first looks, transportation, dressing, touch-ups, the number of services and the number of artists. Services are generally completed in the next available chair rather than assigning every person a specific appointment time.

Why does hair and makeup sometimes begin so early?

The entire bridal party must be finished before photography, first looks, travel or other scheduled wedding activities begin. Larger groups and early ceremonies may require an early start.

Starting early allows everyone to enjoy the morning without rushing and gives your photographer the time needed to capture the important getting-ready moments.

Will my hair and makeup still last if we start early?

Yes. Wedding hair and makeup are designed for long wear. We use professional techniques and products selected to help your look last throughout the celebration.

Finishing time is also built into the schedule so your artists can complete final adjustments before leaving.

Are there additional fees for an early start?

An early-morning fee applies per artist for services beginning before 8:00 a.m. The fee is based on how early each artist must begin.

Any applicable early-morning fees will be listed in your proposal or final balance breakdown.

When is an additional artist needed?

An additional artist may be needed when there is a large number of services, an early ready-by time or a limited getting-ready window.

Adding an artist allows services to happen simultaneously and can prevent the morning from beginning extremely early. An additional artist fee applies.

Can an artist stay for touch-ups?

Yes. An artist may stay for ongoing hair and makeup touch-ups when reserved in advance. Touch-up services are charged hourly and are based on artist availability.

Waiting fees may apply if an artist is required to remain on-site without actively performing services.

Hair, Makeup & Prep

How should I prepare my hair?

Please follow the preparation instructions provided by your artist. In most cases, hair should be completely clean, dry and free from heavy products before your appointment.

Tell us in advance if you have very thick, very long, tightly curled or textured hair, or if you plan to use extensions. These details may affect the time required for your service.

What should I wear while getting ready?

Wear a button-down shirt, robe or another top that can be easily removed without pulling it over your finished hair and makeup.

Should I arrive with makeup on?

Unless your artist gives you different instructions, arrive with a clean, moisturized face and no makeup.

Please let us know about allergies, sensitivities, skin conditions or preferred products before the wedding day. You are welcome to provide a personal product when necessary.

Are false eyelashes included?

Yes. False eyelashes are included with makeup services when desired and appropriate for the requested look.

Do you offer airbrush makeup?

Yes. Airbrush makeup is available. However, traditional makeup is our recommendation for most clients because modern professional products can provide beautiful, customizable and long-lasting coverage.

Your artist can help you determine which option is best for your skin and desired finish.

Can you work with someone who rarely wears makeup?

Absolutely. Bridal makeup does not have to feel heavy or unlike you. Your artist will discuss your comfort level, favorite features and concerns before creating your look.

Because terms such as 'natural,' 'soft glam' and 'full glam' can mean different things to different people, inspiration photos are extremely helpful.

Can you work with mature skin?

Yes. Our artists work with clients of different ages, skin types, skin tones, hair types and personal styles. We customize each service rather than using the same products or techniques on everyone.

Can you work with allergies or sensitive skin?

Yes, but please tell us about all known allergies and sensitivities before your appointment. We can discuss product options, and you may provide personal products that you already know work safely for you.

Can you install hair extensions?

Yes. We can incorporate clip-in human-hair extensions into many bridal hairstyles.

Extensions must be the correct color and suitable for heat styling. Synthetic extensions generally cannot be used with hot tools. Bring your extensions to the trial whenever possible so your artist can confirm that they work with your desired style.

What should I include in my inspiration photos?

Choose photos that show the overall hair or makeup style you love. Whenever possible, look for examples featuring similar hair color, length, density, texture, skin tone or facial features.

Photos of your dress, veil, jewelry and hair accessories are also helpful because the entire look should work together.

Do you provide services for bridesmaids, mothers and other wedding guests?

Yes. We provide hair and makeup for bridesmaids, mothers of the bride and groom, flower girls, family members and other members of the wedding party.

Services for grooms and other guests may also be available depending on the requested look and location.

Wedding Day, Travel & Next Steps

What happens on the wedding day?

Your artists arrive at the contracted location with their professional supplies and set up their stations. Services are performed according to the approved timeline, with each person taking the next available chair.

Everyone receiving a service must be present, prepared and ready at the appropriate time. Delays caused by late or unavailable members of the party may affect the completion of services.

What happens if my scheduled artist has an emergency?

One of the benefits of hiring an established wedding hair and makeup team is having access to backup support. If an unexpected emergency prevents an artist from attending, Fairytale Hair and Makeup will work to provide a qualified replacement whenever possible.

Do you travel?

Yes! Our artists provide mobile services throughout Southern California, Central Florida and Las Vegas, as well as for Disney, Catalina Island, cruise and destination weddings.

Travel fees vary according to the artist, location, parking requirements, tolls and travel time. All known travel fees will be explained before booking.

How far in advance should I book?

As early as possible! Saturdays, popular wedding months, holiday weekends and highly requested dates can book far in advance.

Once you find the team you want, reserving your date early gives you the best selection of available artists and scheduling options.

How do I get started?

Contact Fairytale Hair and Makeup with your wedding date, getting-ready location, approximate number of hair and makeup services and the time everyone needs to be completely ready.

We will check availability and help you determine the best options for your wedding day.

Yes. We can do a trial at your location or the location of the artist. Whatever works best for you and the artist.

The trial is not mandatory. We have a lot of destination brides that do not have time for a trial. That is ok! We just ask that you send pictures of what you look like and what you are looking for so we can discuss details. 
 
A trial is a rough draft. 90% of people that have a trial make changes on the big day. Communication is key in achieving the look you want & love. 

It is usually the bride that has a trial. But there are cases where the mom or a bridesmaid also would like a trial, and that is no problem.

We do not have a minimum of $150 for services.

Yes. We can do a trial at your location or the location of the artist. Whatever works best for you and the artist.

To book we require a $100 credit card deposit along with a filled out contract.

Everything that is needed for your artist to know. How many people will be serviced. As well as what timing and the location.

Yes, the $100 will be deducted from your balance which is due the day of he event.

We cannot hold your date or time without the contract & deposit.

We ask that the deposit is made by credit card. The balance the day of can be paid in cash as well as a check or credit card.

Our staff arrives at your location with all materials. They then do the job that is contracted at the time they were contracted.

Nope. We would love to see pictures of your event. Also would love if you can leave us a review.

Woman with brush applying makeup, eyes closed.
Makeup artist applying eyeshadow on woman

If you want to add or subtract services please do it within the cancellation period to avoid cancellation charge. Or to make sure the artist has the time. The appropriate staff and materials will be there for what is stated on the contract.

Yes. There is an extra hourly charge for staying.

Wash your hair the night before. It will stay better if it is a little dirty. Have it totally dried, ready to go. That saves time.

A button or a zip down shirt. We dont want to mess up your beautiful hair and makeup!

As matter of fact many clients choose including extensions along with their natural hair style.

You can also get them at your local wig shop. Please make sure they are made with human hair. Due to the fact that synthetic hair will melt with any heat.

Airbrush makeup makes your skin look luminous as well as flawless. It also stays on longer than regular makeup. I would recommend it if you have any skin discoloration or scarring. It is also used to cover up tattoos. You can airbrush foundation along with concealer. Eye shadow and liner along with lipstick can be Airbrushed. We do charge extra for airbrush makeup..

Airbrushing any part of your body that you would like to be tanned. It can just be a little color, or you can look like you just went to St. Tropez! Whats the difference between airbrush and Mystic tan?

Airbrush is customized. by a professional. Mystic leave you orange, and also might miss some spots. How long does it last? Up to one week. But you can keep it up with a good self tanner. Do not get a spray tan the day of the event. Do it the day or two before. The tan may get darked within the hours after the application and can come off on your clothes. Probably not a good idea with a white dress.

Fairytale Artists are located all over California, Las Vegas and Central Florida.Although some of our artists have a location such as a studio in their home or a salon. And alternatively other Artists are strictly on location.

Why go to the salon when the salon can come to you?

Relax and enjoy the princess treatment on your wedding or special event day.

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