How to Find the Perfect Hair and Makeup Artists for Your Wedding Day
How to Find the Perfect Hair and Makeup Artists for Your Wedding Day
Your wedding day is one of the most special and photographed days of your life. Naturally, you want to look and feel your absolute best—and that starts with the right hair and makeup team. But with so many options out there, how do you find professionals who align with your style, personality, and wedding-day timeline?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect hair and makeup artists for your big day.
1. Start with Recommendations and Reviews
Begin by asking your wedding planner, photographer, or venue for trusted referrals. For example, if you’re getting married at Valley Mills Farm Wedding & Event Venue, we maintain a list of vetted local hair and makeup artists our couples have loved.
You can also:
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Read Google and Facebook reviews
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Ask in local bridal groups or forums
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Reach out to recently married friends for honest feedback
2. Use Instagram and Pinterest to Match Your Style
Social media is a goldmine for finding beauty inspiration and talented artists.
Try:
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Searching hashtags like #ShenandoahValleyMakeupArtist or #VirginiaBridalBeauty
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Following artists whose portfolios reflect your desired style (natural, glam, boho, etc.)
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Saving looks you love to a shared vision board
Tip: If you find a style you love, bring those saved images to your trial appointment.
3. Schedule a Trial Run
A trial is essential—not just to test the look but also to ensure you’re comfortable with the artist’s technique and personality.
During your trial:
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Wear a white or light-colored top to mimic your wedding dress
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Test longevity by wearing the look for several hours
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Discuss skin sensitivities, hair texture, and any concerns
This is also a great time to confirm how much time they need per person—especially if you have a larger bridal party.
4. Ask the Right Questions
Before signing a contract, make sure to ask:
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Are you available on my wedding date?
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Do you travel to the venue?
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How many people can you accommodate in a set timeframe?
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Do you offer packages for bridesmaids or moms?
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What makeup and hair products do you use?
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What is your backup plan in case of an emergency?
These questions will help you avoid surprises and ensure a smooth, stress-free morning.
5. Consider Your Timeline and Venue Access
Timing matters just as much as talent. One of the most common wedding-day stressors is running behind during hair and makeup—so plan ahead.
At Valley Mills Farm Wedding & Event Venue, couples have access to the bridal suite well in advance of the ceremony, offering a relaxing space for you and your bridal party to get ready. However, even with an early start, one artist can typically only accommodate the bride and one or two others in a timely manner.
Here’s a general timing guide:
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Bride’s makeup: 45–60 minutes
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Bridesmaid/mother’s makeup: 30–45 minutes each
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Hair styling: similar timing per person
If you have more than 3–4 people getting services, consider hiring a glam squad (a team of artists) to keep everything on schedule. Your makeup artist can often recommend assistants or additional stylists they work with regularly.
6. Book Early—Especially During Peak Wedding Season
Top hair and makeup professionals book out 6–12 months in advance, especially during spring and fall. Lock in your artist as soon as you’ve confirmed your venue and date.
Be sure your contract includes:
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Start and end times
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Travel fees (if applicable)
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Number of people receiving services
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Products and services included
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Trial session details
Final Thoughts
Your beauty team plays a big part in setting the tone for your wedding morning—choose professionals who bring both skill and calm energy to the experience. Whether you’re dreaming of soft romantic waves or bold bridal glam, a great hair and makeup artist will help you walk down the aisle feeling confident, beautiful, and 100% yourself.
Planning your wedding at Valley Mills Farm Wedding & Event Venue in the Shenandoah Valley? We’d be happy to recommend local stylists who know our venue well and can help bring your bridal vision to life. Contact us to learn more!
We hope to use our platform to create awareness for the value of supporting locally owned wedding venues. You can help support amazing locally owned wedding venues across the country by writing a Google review, following their social media accounts and referring locally owned wedding venues whenever you have the opportunity. We sincerely appreciate your support and want to share a shout out to some of our wedding venue owner colleagues around the country such as:Lavender on the Lake Events, Admiral Room, Willow Sky Ranch, Celebrations Event Center, The Hillcrest Estate
