Ask your artist

What happens if you have a crisis and can't make it?
A. On a day as big as the wedding, a smart bride prepares for all eventualities. 99% of the time things will go to plan, but if your makeup artist has a home emergency or can't get to you on the day you should know what the back-up option is. Many independent artists work together for large bridal bookings and can recommend an alternative artist with similar skills.

Q. How many other people can you make up on the day?
A. It goes without saying that every bride wants to look her best at her wedding, so you should have an artist who is solely focused on creating your look on the Big Day. However if your sisters, friends or cousins also want professional makeup, ask your artist to allow for extra time for them in your booking. Ensure you enquire about this early on, as unless you book your artist for the entire day, they may have another client to attend to - especially in the midst of the summer wedding season.

Q.What makeup brands do you use?
A. Your bridal beauty look varies hugely from your daily routine. Between the ceremony and registry, taking photos around the venue, chatting to guests and your reception, there won't be much time for reapplication. Professional brands are longer-lasting than every day cosmetics so discuss with your makeup artist what they'll be using and ensure it's suitable for your skin type and get miniatures for your bridal clutch.

Q. How long have you been doing bridal makeup?
A. Your perfect makeup artist may never have stepped inside a classroom but that doesn't mean anything - some of the best names in the business are self taught. It's crucial to look at their portfolio of work, both creative and real weddings, to get an idea of their style and how their makeup translates from models to real brides..

Q. What other services do you provide?
A. Experienced makeup artists are wonderful, multi-skilled magicians who can help you style your dupatta, sari and even your hair! When you're researching, make a note of which ones offer additional services and how much they charge for each so you can compare later on.

Q. How much is a trial run and when should I book it?
A. Brides have a free pass to indulge themselves in the run-up to the wedding, and trying different looks is just one way to do it. If you're unsure about who to hire, meet with plenty of makeup artists and have trial runs before settling on one. Pay attention to the techniques used to allow you to recreate looks after the wedding, and take a selfie to help you remember each artist's work. Whoever you choose will be with you in those crucial hours before kick-off so a trial is also a terrific way to determine if you're comfortable with each other. In general, makeup artists charge a small fee for a trial (roughly £50) which could be in addition to or deducted from your final bill.