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A hair and makeup artist is an essential part to your wedding day and we are often asked by brides where they should start. Our good friend Jess, owner of Jessica Short Hair and Makeup, has kindly answered all those crucial questions you might have at the beginning of your search to help you on your way. We’ve been lucky enough to work closely together on many weddings together!

1. When should I start looking for a make-up and hair artist?

I would say around a year and a half to a year before your wedding date. You can be a little bit more relaxed with this if your wedding date is not in peak season (March-October) and is not over a weekend. Equally, if you find an artist’s style you really like, book them in as soon as you can for peace of mind! 

2. Can I book a trial? And when should I?

Yes of course! I strongly recommend to all of my brides to book in for a trial session. It’s a great chance for us to meet and discuss/create your whole look for the day. It also enables us to really fine tune your look and make any required tweaks. You can then leave feeling excited and relaxed about your wedding morning prep. I would recommend booking a trial approximately 6/8 weeks before your wedding date. 

3. Where does the trial take place?

All my hair and makeup trials take place during the week at my cosy home studio in Reading, Berkshire.  

4. Should I take my veil and accessories to my trial?

Yes, all of your finishing touches can really bring your look to life! Alternatively, if you are stuck with what veil and accessories to choose, I am more than happy to help and advise you once we have created your style. I will also have a few accessories and veils on hand for you to try. 

5. Can I try more than one style in the trial?

Yes, there is time to try two styles at one trial sitting. We will also be making tweaks as we go to ensure your look is just as you envisioned. 

6. Should I send inspirational pictures to you?

Yes please, these can be really helpful as a guideline. 

7. How long does each person take on the day? Do you have a team of people?

I usually allow two hours for a bride’s hair and makeup styling and 1.5 hours for a Mother of the Bride/bridesmaid’s hair and makeup styling on a wedding day. These timings could vary slightly depending on your chosen styles. I would also need less time if you were to book in for hair only or makeup only. If we were to go ahead with a booking, I would put together a detailed timing schedule for your wedding morning to ensure everything runs smoothly and on time. Yes, I have a super talented team of artists that are able to assist me on larger bookings. 

8. Do you offer touch-ups during the day?

Yes, at an additional cost. 

9. Should my hair be freshly washed on my wedding morning?

I usually recommend washing and drying your hair the night before the wedding unless discussed otherwise. 

10. Do you cater to sensitive or problem-prone skin?

Yes, I have a complete range of products in my kit and cater for all skin types and tones. 

11. I want to use some of my own makeup products, is this possible? 

Yes, this is possible. Please let me know if you would like to use your own makeup products in advance to your trial session and bring your chosen products with you.