A day in the life of the makeup artist is tough to pin down, because every day can be totally different for this dynamic and constantly changing profession! One day you may be doing makeup backstage at a runway fashion show, and the next day you could be doing makeup for a bride and her bridal, party. Not to mention, every single face needs something unique no matter what the setting. A day in the life of the makeup professional can vary wildly based on what specialty you work in and what’s on your itinerary that day, but there are a few standards that apply across the board.
Prepare Your Tools
You likely invested in high-quality makeup brushes and tools, as well as quality makeup palettes. You need to take care of those tools, and keep them organized. A messy station does not say “professionalism.” Think about the cosmetics jobs you have lined up for the day, and organize your tool kit for the gig or your work station accordingly. Be sure that your brushes and supplies have been properly cleaned and sanitized for the safety of your clients. Be sure you have everything you need to get through the day seamlessly, that your brush belt is fully stocked, and that you have your sanitation canister at the ready for used brushes.
Consult with the Client
Every client’s skin has different needs, and every makeup job is totally custom, the artist should always consult with the client about their challenges, preferences and skin allergies. The appointment generally begins with the client consultation, where you will ask a number of questions to learn what the client wants you to do with their makeup. Iif you do wedding makeup, the client is the bride, but if you do theatrical makeup, the director may be your client, or a fashion show client may be the designer. When you reach a full understanding of what the client wants, the services can then begin. This time can also be used to get to know your client on a more personal level, because building a personal relationship with your clients leads to customer retention and referrals!
Do the Makeup
This part could include cleansing the clients’ skin with products selected specifically for their skin types, so you can apply makeup to a freshly cleaned palette (their faces!). You may apply primers, foundations, concealers , powders, blushes, eyeshadows, eyeliners, lip liners, lipsticks and a number of other cosmetic products specific to the client’s requests, the event the makeup is for, and their skin types. The goal is for every client to leave feeling beautiful, comfortable and confident in their makeup look. Each appointment is completely custom to the client.
Ask for Referrals
Because makeup services aren’t quite as regular and consistent as haircuts for most people, it’s tough to get them to book the next appointment before they pay and leave, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get their gears turning on good times to come see you again! When the appointment is complete, every makeup artist should tell the client about the various services they offer and offer suggestions for other events that could use great makeup that the client may not have thought of.
For example, if you are doing bridal makeup, let the bride and bridesmaids know that you also do makeup for family photos, girls’ nights out, or that you’re available for other special events besides weddings. Also let them know about any upcoming specials or promotions, and inform them of any referral discounts you offer if they send friends and family to you for makeovers. For example, “Just a heads up that I’m offering 20% off of each makeover when you book a girls’ night out party for 3 or more!” Certified makeup experts should remind their happy, loyal customers that they love referral business so you can continue to grow your clientele!