How to Choose a Wedding Hair & Makeup Artist in Ontario

Hair and makeup artists are some of the most-requested vendors in the WEVO group, and for good reason: you'll spend your whole morning with them, and their work is in every photo. Here's how to choose the right artist and plan a calm wedding morning.

Start with their portfolio, not their price

Look for real clients rather than only styled shoots, and for people with skin tone, hair texture and features like yours. Ask to see photos taken in different lighting, since makeup that looks perfect indoors can look different outdoors or with a flash.

Ask the questions that affect your budget

• Is there a travel fee to my home or venue, and is parking included?
• Is there a minimum number of people for on-location service?
• What's the price per person for the wedding party, and for touch-ups?
• Is the trial included or priced separately?
• Does the quote include HST?

Book your trial at the right time

Most couples book a trial a few months before the wedding, once they know their dress and hairpiece. Bring photos of looks you love and looks you don't, wear a top with a similar neckline to your dress, and take photos in daylight before you leave.

Work backwards to plan your morning

Ask your artist how long each person takes, then plan backwards from when your photographer arrives. Build in a buffer, and schedule yourself to finish last but not at the very last minute, so your look is fresh for photos.

Get it in writing

Your contract should list the number of people, start time, location, services for each person, travel fees, deposit and cancellation terms, and what happens if the artist is sick on the day.

Find an artist near you

Post your date and area in the WEVO group to hear from artists who are available, or search the directory for hair and makeup artists in your region.