Photo: Joshua Killeen
The excitement of wedding planning comes with the challenge of making the right decisions, especially when it comes to your makeup artist. I get it – you want the best for your wedding day. After years of working with brides across Arizona, I’ve gathered the most important tips that can help you find the perfect match. Let’s dive in!
1. Start Your Search Early – It’s Worth the Time!
I can’t emphasize this enough: start looking for your makeup artist 8-12 months before your wedding day. Popular artists get booked quickly, especially during Arizona’s peak wedding season ( September – May ), which can be quite busy. You’ll want to avoid scrambling last minute. Instead, give yourself plenty of time to browse portfolios, schedule trials and finalize everything well in advance.
I’ve had brides reach out at the last minute, and while I try to accommodate, those who plan early always feel more relaxed. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your look is sorted long before the big day.
2. Use Social Media to Your Advantage
Let’s be real: Instagram, Pinterest and even YouTube have become wedding planning staples. No matter what look you are looking for, these platforms offer a visual portfolio at your fingertips. When you search hashtags like #arizonabridalmakeup or #phoenixmakeupartist, you’ll discover tons of talented artists.
For me, Instagram (@diangelmakeup) is where I showcase a variety of bridal looks, and I love when brides connect with me after seeing my work. You’ll get a good sense of my style and can even see behind-the-scenes footage to get a feel for my vibe. It’s like a virtual introduction before we ever meet!
3. Get Personal Recommendations – They’re Gold
Your friends, family and even other wedding vendors are some of your best resources. They’ve already done the hard work of vetting makeup artists, so why not ask for their advice? I often work with brides who were referred by photographers, venues or even previous clients. Word of mouth is priceless.
And remember, not every makeup artist specializes in bridal makeup. Bridal looks require specific skills, thus it’s important to choose someone who understands the significance of your big day. That’s why connecting with vendors who’ve worked with professional bridal artists can be a great starting point.
4. Check Portfolios with a Critical Eye
When you’re looking at a makeup artist’s portfolio, don’t just admire the glam shots, instead – think about what’s behind them. Do they work with various skin tones? Can they cater to different facial structures and preferences? I love when brides tell me they’ve seen a wide range of my work, from lighter to darker skin tones, on different ages and nationalities.
Make sure the artist’s website includes diverse examples of real brides, not just selfies or one particular style.
5. Book a Makeup Trial – It’s Your Time to Experiment
Your trial is more than just a preview – it’s your opportunity to explore what works best for your skin, face shape and personal style. Some brides think a trial should just mimic their wedding day look, but I see it as a time to experiment. If you’ve always wondered how you’d look with a bold lip or a different eye makeup style, the trial is your playground!
6. Pick Someone You Feel Comfortable With
I spend a lot of time with my brides on their wedding day, sometimes starting at 6 AM! Trust me, you’ll want to feel comfortable around your makeup artist. If you vibe well during your initial consultation or trial, that’s a great sign. Brides tell me all the time how much they appreciate having someone calm and positive in the room while they’re getting ready.
I’m known for my open, friendly personality and I love chatting with brides about their vision, wedding plans or even just life in general. It’s about creating a relaxed environment so you feel your best!
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Talk Budget
I know budgeting for a wedding can be tough, but transparency is key when it comes to your makeup artist. Don’t hesitate to ask for a full breakdown of prices upfront. Many artists offer packages that include trials, touch-ups and travel costs. At Makeup By Diana, I always make sure my brides are clear on pricing and what’s included, so there are no surprises.
The peace of mind that comes with knowing your makeup artist has everything covered is worth every penny.
8. Prioritize Long-Lasting Products – Arizona Heat Is No Joke!
Arizona’s climate can be a bit tricky when it comes to makeup, especially if you’re planning an outdoor wedding in the spring or fall. Make sure your artist uses professional-grade, long-lasting products that can handle the heat. I always use products that are sweat-proof and tear-resistant, making sure that my brides stay flawless the entire day.
9. Build a Personal Connection – It’s More Than Just Makeup
At the end of the day, your makeup artist will be part of one of the most emotional and memorable moments of your life. I’ve had brides tell me how grateful they were to have someone who not only made them look stunning but also brought positive energy to their day.
When we work together, it’s not just about the makeup – it’s about making sure you feel confident, beautiful and stress-free. I love hearing your love story, learning about your wedding details and helping you shine on your special day. After all, you deserve to look and feel like the best version of yourself!
Selecting the right makeup artist is more than just browsing photos. By following these tips, you’ll find your perfect match in Arizona, just like so many of my wonderful brides have.
Feel free to reach out to me directly or check out my latest work on Instagram @diangelmakeup. I’d love to be part of your special day!