Why does bridal make up cost more than bridesmaids?

I have been asked this question a few times, never in a rude manner but usually from a place of genuine curiosity- “why does bridal make up cost more?”. The first and simplest answer is time. For a regular client receiving a make up service the average time slot scheduled is an hour, give or take a few minutes for heavier or more glamorous looks. There are of course essential steps to take for any client that include cleansing, moisturising and priming with any make up application, but with a bride the peoskin prep is absolutely fundamental to the longevity and overall quality of the wedding make up look. For trials and wedding day bridal make up an artist will usually schedule at least an hour and a half plus time at the end for touch ups pre-ceremony.

Another factor for a higher cost is the quality of the products used. Bridal make up is where an artist will likely charge more to ensure they can always use the higher end brands, for example I use Elemis Resurfacing Cleansing Pads on brides, but simply could not afford to use them on all clients unless the price tag was higher for the average Jane, which some clients may not feel necessary. A bride however, on what is one of the most special days of her life, will be more likely to appreciate any little luxury detail that will help her to feel at her very best on the day.

And the third and final factor in setting the price higher for brides is the paperwork. Simply put, with bridal work there is a lot more background admin to take care of for a make up artist, such as invoicing, quotes, contracts, business terms and permission forms. The majority of regular clients will get in touch to book the artist, set a date and time and pay their deposit with some conversation throughout to settle on the details. A wedding make up artist must work beyond this booking system for brides to ensure the highest standard of professionalism and protection to all parties is met. For this reason, additional charges usually apply.

I hope this provides some insight to the work of a bridal make up artist, it’s a high pressure job with great expectations, but we love what we do and adore the difference we can make with our work. 🩷

Kelsey x