The Business of Bridal

As a full time freelancing makeup artist I learned really quick that the bridal business is a huge part of a full time freelancer's income. Bridal makeup is the most requested service from clients and the main source of client referrals. As a makeup artist it's your job to understand how important it is to have and maintain a flowing bridal business. It's wise to have a wide range of services to offer your brides and decent rates to compete with other artist in your local area. Also, marketing yourself is key, it's a great idea to attend bridal shows and networking "Girls Night Out " events to get your business out there to possibly new clients for you.

I've been in the bridal business my whole career as a makeup artist, about 9 years now. In fact my 1st "big gig" was a small wedding with only the bride and her groom. It was quite the experience for me as a new artist. My bride was the sweetest ever. She was easy to please with my artistry and she was willing to pay my rate without questions. I was confident and it was my goal to impress her because she was a member of an elite women's group, who had other women getting married soon. So I was sure to be on time and provide her with a bridal look she would love to brag about. This is the mentality you need to have to insure client referrals. In the following months I was booking her group member's weddings as well!

Word of mouth referrals are the most honest referrals you can get. Think of it like this, your client loved your service so much that when she has the opportunity to plug your business (for free) she is more than happy to share your information with whomever in need of your services. This part of marketing in my opinion is the best. It gives potential clients a first hand review of you & your business. If you've done your job properly and professionally, it'll be all good for your growing bridal business.

As the years passed my artistry skills improved, my clientele increased and so did my list of services for my brides, which now included lash applications, brow services, and the ever popular HD airbrush makeup. I would strongly suggest that you get the proper skill trainings for any service that you are planning on adding to your list of services offered. While bridal is the #1 source of income for makeup artist, makeup hygiene is the most popular reasons a makeup artist will end up in court. Brides and clients alike will sue you if your lack of proper hygiene had anything to do with causing them a horrible reaction or experience.

Which brings me to bridal contracts. I suggest you get your research going and get a legit contract that's fair for your clients but protects you as an artist/business. Get all of the licenses and IRS tax ids you'll need to operate your business legally in your state. Cover your butt!!! It's fun being an artist and doing makeup but its no fun having to appear in court.

Beside that if you're looking into becoming a full time freelance artist you're most definitely going to have to have a consistent flow of bridal clients to maintain income in between all the other non-bridal clients you'll get. Regular bookings are what you're aiming for in this business.

Be sure to read my post Here comes the Bride for a bridal client interview that  will give you a peek into what a bride is looking for when booking a makeup artist for her wedding!