I have a salon appointment for my make up, but now I'm wondering if my BM's should have professional make up, too? I don't really have room for this in my budget, but I'm not sure how else to ensure the girls have a consistent look in our photos.
you could always talk to the salon and see if they do group packages or discounts. or, find a local make up artistry student and see if they will do you BMs for a low cost. The student gets practical experience and you get a consistent look at a low price.
There's no reason you need a "consistent look" with the makeup. They should wear their makeup however they like it. It would look creepy to have clones.
If you want them to have their make-up professionally done you need to pay for it.
The thing with the "consistent" look is that each girl has a different skin tone and wears make-up differently. Also, someone who normally has a very natural look doesn't wear much if any make-up may just not be comfortable wearing a lot. I really think that if you want professional make-up done, pay for it, but do not micromanage HOW each girl gets hers done. Also, some people have very sensitive skin and may not want to/be able to use certain make-up products on their skin. I know I break out very easily; it just so happened my MUA used the same brand of foundation I do, but if she didn't, I would have brought my own.
Re: Make-up for the wedding party?
If you want them to have their make-up professionally done you need to pay for it.