FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why use professionals?

A professional hair and makeup artist is a must for any big event.  They understand exactly what it takes to make you look and feel breathtakingly beautiful.  Even if you are good at doing your own hair and makeup, professional artists know the tricks of the trade to really bring that ‘wow’ factor.  They also understand how to ensure you look amazing in photographs as well as in person. 

Booking a hair and makeup artist together will ensure that there is continuity between your hair, makeup and clothing.

How far in advance to I need to book?

It is worthwhile booking your hair and makeup artist as early as possible as sought after artists can be booked up to 12 months in advance.

What products are used?

Our makeup artist’s kits are stocked with professional products such as MAC, Bobbi Brown and Makeup Forever.  These products are suitable for most skin types and should not cause allergic reactions.  Our hairsytlists use products such as Redkin, GHD and Loreal. If you have a specific allergy please inform us prior to your appointment.

Does Allure provide airbrush makeup?

Every makeup artist will have a personal opinion on whether they prefer airbrush or traditional makeup application.  Our artists specialise in traditional applications, which allow them to completely control the application process.  If applied correctly, conventional application should last just as long and look as good, if not better, than airbrush application. 

Why should I book a trial?

Trials have two main purposes.  Firstly, a trial will allow you to meet with the artist/s and gain an understanding of their skill first hand.  Secondly, a trial will also allow you to experiment with different looks and colours to enable you to decide on the perfect style for your event.  Its important during your trial that you communicate with your artist.  Tell them what you do and do not like.  They are there to work with you, to create a look that you are happy with. 

At Allure, our number one concern is that you love your final look.  This means that we will continue to try different things until you are completely satisfied.   Once you are happy with your look your artists will record the details of the styles that were agreed upon and the products that were used.  They will also take a few photographs for a visual record of the look created.  This documentation process helps ensure that the look can be easily replicated on the day of the event.  And importantly when using the combined services of our hair and makeup artists, you get to see what the whole package will look like beforehand! 

What is the best time to have a trial?

We recommend having a trial approximately 3 month prior to your event, however should you wish to have a trial prior to this to decide whether you would like to use us, we suggest booking one at your earliest possible convenience as your booking will not be secured until a deposit has been paid. 

What do I need to bring to a trial?

It’s a good idea to bring fabric samples or photographs of both the bride and bridesmaids gowns, any hairpieces or veils that will be used, as well as magazine clippings or photographs of hair and makeup styles that you like.  We find that some people have difficulty explaining the look that they would like to achieve and bringing these items will help our artists to visualise your ideas. 

Our makeup artists carry a selected range of lip colours, however it is preferable for you to bring along a range of your favourite lipsticks or glosses.  Your artist will then select one that suits the look that has been created so that you can use it during the event for touching up.  Alternatively, touch up lip pots may be purchased directly from your artist. 

What will I need to maintain hairstyle?

Hairstyles should be easily maintained throughout the duration of your event and should not need alteration.  If anything, you may wish to carry a few additional hairpins with you. 

What will I need to maintain my makeup?

Our makeup artists use professional products and techniques to ensure that application is long lasting and stays beautiful all day long.  For extra staying power our artists also use a facial sealant.  This is a lightweight facial mist, which is applied once the makeup has been completed.  We recommend that you carry supplies of your chosen lipstick or lip gloss and a pressed powder for minor touch ups throughout the day. 

What if I cry?

Allure makeup artists use waterproof mascaras and eyeliners to ensure that eye makeup stays put.  If you do cry, its best to ‘dab’ your eyes rather than ‘rub’ as this will be gentler on your skin and the makeup application!

Does the makeup need to be heavy?

Makeup can be applied as heavily or as lightly as you desire.  Makeup can also be dewy or matte depending on your preference.  For events where photographs will be taken a matte or semi-matte finish produces the best results on film. 

Do you use primers?

Primers provide a barrier over the skin and provide a smooth base for foundation to adhere to.  The use of a primer in most cases can enhance the look and longevity of the makeup application, which is why Allure makeup artists will recommend using a primer on most occasions.

Do I need to do anything special before my trial or event to prepare my skin and hair?

Hair should be washed and thoroughly dried prior to styling.  Unless directed by your stylist, you should not need to do anything else to prepare your hair prior to your session.  Your artist will have on hand a variety of tools and products to create your desired style. 

For makeup applications it is important to begin with a clean, exfoliated and moisturised face.  Thorough exfoliation of the skin and lips should be undertaken approximately one day before your event.  It is not necessary to prepare your skin with expensive products, nor make a number of trips to the beautician.  Makeup will be applied to camouflage any areas of concern.  If you wax, it is a good idea to do this a few days prior to your event. 

One of things that can make the most difference to your look is having properly groomed eyebrows.  Having a well-groomed brow will draw attention to your eyes and serve as a frame for your face.  For some this will involve only minor adjustments to their current shape however for others this might involve a complete brow overhaul over a number of months.  It is best start visiting a brow shaping professional approximately six months out from your event.

My normal style is quite natural – will I still look like me?

You will look like you only more beautiful.  Your artists will listen to your concerns and design your look according to your own personal style and preferences.

How long will my hair and makeup take?

A hair and makeup trial will usually take approximately two hours however this length may vary if multiple styles are experimented with.

On the day of the event it is best to schedule approximately 45 minutes per person per service and allow at least half an hour to get dressed and make the final touches to your look.

I would like to treat a loved one.  Do you do gift certificates?

Yes, please contact us to arrange this.