Should I combine my bridal hair/makeup trial with pre-wedding events?
Introduction
It's a question I hear often from brides-to-be:
"Should I combine my bridal hair/makeup trial with my pre-wedding events?"
The correct answer (as it often is), is "it depends".
Without further context, I usually advise brides to keep their pre-wedding events separate from their trial. So I'm going to start off with the cons of combining your bridal/makeup trial with other events. Having said that, there are definitely some pros as well, and I cover those too.
Cons:
1. Less experimentation
For me personally, this is the biggest con of using other pre-wedding events as a trial. Makeup and hair artists use trials to try things out and make your look the best it can be. They aren't scared to make mistakes during this time. The purpose is to find out what works, as well as find out what doesn't work.
If the trial is combined with a pre-wedding event, the primary goal changes to making you look good for your event. Artists experiment less, and take less risks. Because of this, you may not truly get a look that you could have otherwise.
2. Different needs
In point 1, I mentioned that the purpose of a "true trial" is different from the purpose of an actual appointment for one of your events before the wedding. Depending on the pre-wedding event, there are other ways the needs for the event could drastically differ from the needs of a trial.
For example, one common pre-wedding event is an e-shoot. The makeup applied for an e-shoot is primarily for a camera lens. Hence creating that look becomes the primary goal of the artist. This makeup application can be significantly different than what would work best for your bridal makeup.
3. Timing
If your pre-wedding event is a long time prior to your wedding, it may not work well as a trial. Your skin tone, hair color, or what you like may change, and you might need another trial.
4. Stress
In my experience, trials work best when both, bride & artist understand the primary goal is experimentation. When this happens, trials are usually fun and not taken too seriously. It's understood that if it doesn't work out, the bride can always schedule another trial, or even choose another artist!
Pre-wedding events can be hectic and stressful. There is added pressure on both, bride and artist to get the look right for the pre-wedding event. This often comes at the expense of truly figuring out the best look for the wedding day.
Pros:
1. Cost savings
Planning a wedding can definitely get costly! Combining your hair and makeup trial with a pre-wedding event can save you money. Instead of paying for separate appointments, you're just paying for one.
2. Time saving
Planning a wedding takes time. A bride-to-be has a lot to do. If you have a busy schedule, combining pre-wedding event with your trial can be a way to save time.
3. Some of your goals may still be met
I previously mentioned the purpose of a trial is to find out what works, as well as find out what doesn't work. However, each bride is unique, and what you are trying to get out of a trial may differ.
If your goal is to get familiar with the artist, and get a sense of their work overall, combining a pre-wedding event with a trial will definitely do that.
Conclusion
Ultimately, as a bride you have to make the decision. As mentioned above, there are both, pros and cons to combining a pre-wedding event with your bridal hair/makeup trial. It comes down to your primary goal, personal preferences, budget, and schedule. By considering the pros and cons, you can make an informed choice.
Remember, open communication with your makeup and hair artist is crucial. If you're unsure of what would work better for you, have a discussion! Discuss your expectations and concerns with them.
At Makeup by Nida & Team, we've seen enough of both, to help you make the right choice for you.
Ready to start the discussion? Start out by requesting a bridal hair and makeup quote here, and we'll get in touch!
