With 4th of July fast approaching and wedding season in full swing, it’s easy to get caught up in the fun and sun of Summertime. But education for my creatives and my brides is still going strong! Because the 4th is on a Tuesday, our Tell-All Tuesday post is happening today! Tell-All Monday, y’all! My dear friend, Dana Michele of Dana Michele Makeup, is taking over the blog today to share why it’s SO important to never skip out on professional hair & make-up! I love her work (she does most of the hair and make-up on my brides-to-be for their Engagement Sessions) and her positive attitude on life! I totally agree with everything she says and recommend to all my brides that they NEED a professional for not only their wedding look, but their engagement look too!

Why is it important to have a professional hair and make-up artist for my wedding?
It is critical to have a professional in charge of your hair and makeup on your wedding day because it is your most photographed day. The pictures will stand the test of time and are passed down for generations to come. Having a professional means having someone with the education, experience, and knowledge of what is best for you as an individual. They will be able to guide you on what looks best, what will realistically work for your hair/skin type, and have the right tools to make sure your hair and makeup will last through the long day.

When should I book my hair and make-up artist?
It’s best to book hair and makeup as early as possible to secure your date. Especially if you’re getting married during the busy season (May-September). Depending on who you choose and how many people are looking for services will determine how many hair/makeup artists will be needed. Of course some people are better planners than others, you may luck out getting the artist you want last minute, but that’s pushing your luck. Typically 6 months is average; that allows time for a trial (a make-up session before your wedding day to test the look you want.)

What questions should I ask when looking for a hmu artist?
You want to ask your HMU about products they use, education/experience they have, and how they can be of service to your specific needs. It’s always great to look at an artist’s work on their website or Instagram, as well as, what prior clients have to say about their experience. After you book with them, ask them what you need to do to be ready for them the day of, like moisturizing your face and having day-old hair. Keeping communication open is always necessary to make sure you are on the same page and are getting the look you want.

Should I have my hair and make-up done for my Engagement Session? Why?
YES!! Just like your wedding photographs are an important part of your “history”, engagement pictures are the prequel. They are the memories you will have to look at, frame, use for wedding invites, etc. When you look and feel beautiful, that emotion is reflected in your body language and onto the camera. It makes the photographers job a lot easier when hair and skin are at it’s best! There are also certain tricks professionals know how to do to make sure the camera/lighting is picking up your best features. Then the focus can be strictly on YOU (and your fiancé, of course!)

Meet Dana!
Dana is a freelance makeup artist that specializes in airbrush and traditional makeup for bridal, photoshoots, film/tv/commercial. She has been doing makeup for over 10 years, but her interest in makeup began before she could even wear it. She holds herself to a high standard as an artist to not only provide a flawless look, but to educate through application. She is a people person and enjoys getting to meet and work with a variety of clientele. When she’s not playing around with new looks or researching the crazy new trends, she is spending time with her husband and their two kitties.

Follow along on Dana’s adventures!
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