Weddings are full of excitement and fun. Beautiful Gowns. Great Music. Amazing Food. A Lifetime of Memories! They are also a big investment of time and money. And to ensure that you are maximizing both (your time and money), it is always best to have a contract to outline and specify the details of any services you may be receiving on the big day.

We are going to go over a few items that we think are important to have in any contract between you and your chosen Makeup Artist (MUA) – some are also basic things you’ll want to look for in ALL of your Wedding Day contracts.

The Basics
The Date the contract is being entered/executed
Who’s entering into the contract (you & your MUA/company)
The Date and time of Service – Here at Flawless we actually will send you a schedule as an addendum to the initial contract which will outline “chair times” for each person being serviced under your contract

Terms & Fees
So the format of this may be different from contract to contract however, this is the “meat” of your contract. Things you should be looking for in these sections will be the COST-in clear terms the total fees for the services rendered should be outlined.

How and when the monies need to be paid. Is a deposit or retainer due? When is your balance due? Traditionally, a non-refundable retainer is due at the time of booking to secure your date/time. Most professionals will also require that the balance be paid at a minimum of 30days prior to the event. (This non-refundable retainer is why you want to KNOW that you truly like the service(s) provided by your MUA)

Cancellations, Refunds and other Fees
Somewhere in your contract it should talk about the “what-ifs”. What if you need to cancel? What if the MUA cancels? What if there is an ‘Act of God’ and services can’t be provided?

Your contract should explain what happens if you cancel (many times this means you will lose your retainer).

Some contracts will even discuss what happens if you or members of your party are late and/or have extensive gaps in between people being served.

Extras
Some others things that you may find in your contract with your MUA include:

Travel Expenses/Lodging/Parking Fees
A Promotional Clause
Liability Clause (this may be specific to allergies related to product used)
Info regarding your Trial
Language about required work conditions

The goal of a contract is to outline and define expectations on the part of both parties. It makes it so there are no ifs, ands, or buts when it comes down to excellent service being delivered to you. Going into the situation with an understanding of what’s at hand helps to ensure that you get exactly what you are looking for from your Makeup Artist!

Debra Traylor
Professional Makeup Artist
2650 East Beltline Se Grand Rapids, MI 49508
www.FlawlessBeautyByDebra.com