Necessity of a trial and other MU concerns

meg65

I have been debating DIY make up/hair vs. MUA for some time now, and it's really starting to stress me out. I've read many of the threads about the pros and cons of each and I'm still not sure. 

I feel like I can do my own make up and hair pretty well myself, but it seems like with buying all the necessary products it would cost about the same to just hire someone to do it for me.

Because the city where I am getting married does not have a local board and the nearest city board hasn't turned up anything, I got the contact info of some MUA through our florist and baker, without any reviews or recommendations from other brides. I think they are reasonably priced, but I don't think I could afford a trail, since it costs almost as much as the day-of services. But, it makes me really nervous to book someone with no reviews and no trail. I don't want anything crazy for hair or make up, so maybe I don't even need a trail?

Does anyone have any advice for me? DIY or MUA? Trial or no trial? Book MUA on good faith?

raes19

I wouldn't book someone for my wedding day without doing a trial. I had a trial done and didn't like it, and ended up doing my makep myself on my wedding day. If I ended up with the trial makeup on my wedding day, I probably would have freaked a little bit.

fallbride1109

I also had a trial and hated it.  I switched artists and ended up being thrilled with how I looked on my wedding day--but if that first trial had been my wedding day I would have been very disappointed.  I understand it's an added cost, but IMO it is money well spent.

Weddingwire.com is another source for vendor reviews.  Also you can ask to see the MUA's portfolio and for references as well.

witttybride

I'm a pro makeup artist and I would definitely recommend doing a trial. And make sure you find an excellent artist to begin with! Many of the top artists don't advertise on these wedding sites because they're busy enough without it. You're going to pay a higher price for a top artist, but it will be worth it because they'll know what they're doing, tricks to make the makeup last longer etc. Your look will be timeless, your photos will turn out better... and it will be so nice for you to just relax on the big day and turn yourself over to your artist - you won't be stressed at all because you'll have already done a trial run... it will cost more, sure, but it's really the best way to go.
Make sure you find someone who has a strong portfolio, get referrals from other brides and don't be afraid to ask to see a few of their wedding pics. Do a search on the internet or contact a local agency that represents artists. Often their costs will be similar to freelance artists. Good luck! You deserve it

meganb1977

If you go the professional would definitely recommend a trial.  The one time I had professional makeup done to stand in a wedding, there wasn't any kind of trial and I hated it.

MrsKathyC

I had a trial and didn't like it.  I discussed my feelings with the MUA and she made some changes for the day of.  I loved it.  My MUA didn't charge for a trial.