Behind the Scenes: What Happens During a Professional Hair and Makeup Session

Booking a professional hair and makeup session can be exciting but also a bit of a mystery if it’s your first time. Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of what you can expect from start to finish when you book with a professional artist.

1. Initial Consultation

Before your appointment, a professional artist will likely reach out to discuss your event and vision. Whether it’s a formal, wedding, or photoshoot, this consultation helps clarify your personal style, preferences, and any inspiration you have in mind. You’ll also talk about any skin sensitivities or specific products you like to use, ensuring everything is tailored to your needs.

2. Prepping Your Canvas

On the day of your session, it all begins with prepping your skin and hair. Your artist will clean and moisturise your skin to ensure the makeup applies smoothly and lasts longer. For hair, a light spritz of product may be used to add texture or protect it from heat styling. This foundational step sets the stage for a flawless finish.

3. Customised Hair Styling

Whether you want soft waves, an elegant updo, or something bold, your hairstylist will start with the look you’ve discussed. Throughout the process, adjustments can be made to suit your face shape or personal preference. A professional has the tools and expertise to create a style that holds all day (or night), no matter the occasion.

4. Expert Makeup Application

Once the hair is styled, it’s time for makeup. The artist will start by perfecting your complexion—choosing a foundation that suits your skin tone and type, and applying it for a natural or glam finish based on your preferences. They’ll then work on the finer details: eyes, lips, brows, and contouring, all tailored to enhance your features. If there’s a specific look you want—whether it’s smoky eyes, a bold lip, or something more subtle—they’ll bring that vision to life.

5. Ongoing Adjustments and Feedback

A professional will consistently check in with you throughout the session, making sure you’re happy with the progress. You’re encouraged to provide feedback—whether you want a bolder look or prefer to tone something down. The goal is to create a result that not only looks amazing but also feels authentically you.

6. Setting the Look

Once your hair and makeup are completed, the artist will apply finishing products to lock everything in place. From setting sprays for your makeup to extra hold products for your hair, they’ll ensure your look stays intact for the long haul, even if you're on the dance floor all night!

7. Final Touches

As a final step, your artist may perform any last-minute touch-ups to ensure everything is flawless. This is the moment when you’ll see the complete look come together. The professional will provide guidance on how to maintain your style throughout the event and, in some cases, offer a complimentary touch-up kit to keep you looking fresh.

8. Complimentary Touch-Up Kit

Some professionals, like myself, provide a personalised touch-up kit with essentials like blotting papers, mini makeup remover, and more, ensuring you can refresh your look at any point during your event.

9. The Reveal

Once everything is complete, it’s time for the big reveal! You’ll get a full look at the final result, and this is the moment you should feel completely transformed and confident, ready to take on your special occasion.

Booking with a professional hair and makeup artist means you’ll receive tailored, expert care from start to finish. The process is designed to not only make you look amazing but to ensure you feel pampered and confident in your look.