FAQS | Contoured By Katie 1

CBK FAQ Page

How far in advance should I book Katie?

My wedding bookings tend to fill up years in advance. To ensure you secure your top choice, I recommend booking your makeup artist as soon as you have your wedding date, especially for peak season. Most brides book 8-15 months in advance. Since I only take on one wedding per day, it's best to inquire as early as possible to reserve your desired date.

How much time is needed for makeup on the wedding day?

Katie typically takes 2-2.5 hours for bridal makeup and 1-1.5 hours for each bridesmaid, mother, or attendant. Based on your desired timeline, early morning starts (7AM-8AM) are common. f the bride plans for a "first-look," this usually means everyone needs to be ready by noon or early afternoon, so an earlier start time of 8AM is typically necessary. Katie will also need 30 minutes before the makeup start time to unpack and set up. To ensure everything runs smoothly and on time, it's important that your venue or getting-ready space allows vendors early access. If your venue does not allow for early access or has morning time-limit constraints, it is recommended to look into a nearby hotel or Airbnb to get ready.

Who will be doing my Bridal Makeup?

Katie will always be the makeup artist doing your bridal makeup! Depending on the size of your bridal party, Katie may bring an additional MUA to help ensure all services are completed by your desired end time. However, Katie’s second artist will only assist with makeup for the bridesmaids, mothers, and attendants—your bridal makeup will always be handled by Katie.

What if someone in my bridal party doesn’t want full glam makeup?

I encourage all brides to share my social media page and portfolio with their bridal party before signing up for makeup services. This allows each bridesmaid to decide if my style of makeup is a good fit for them. I specialize in both soft and full glam makeup, both requiring lots of layers of makeup. If someone in the bridal party prefers a more natural or minimal makeup style, I can certainly adjust my approach to meet those needs. However, it’s important to note that ultra-natural looks are not my specialty or my stle, so the final result may differ from what you see in my portfolio.

How do I book you for my wedding?

To secure your date, I require a signed contract and a 50% non-refundable deposit. Please fill out the inquiry form on the Contact page with your details.

How much do you charge for bridal makeup?

Pricing varies based on the package you choose as well as the wedding location, timing, travel, date, etc. Bridal makeup starts at $400 and bridesmaid/mother/attendant makeup at $165. Please fill out the inquiry form on the Contact page for a more detailed quote.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your date. All deposits and payments are non-refundable. Only when a signed contract and deposit are received is your wedding date secured.

Do you offer airbrush makeup?

No, I do not offer airbrush makeup. I use traditional makeup application and layering process in order to achieve a flawless, airbrushed look without actually using airbrush makeup. Please refer to my social media or website galleries for previous looks.

What brands of makeup do you use?

I use high-quality, long-lasting products from various brands such as MAC, NARS, Estee Lauder, Charlotte Tilbury, etc. I ensure a flawless finish that lasts all day long.

Do you apply false eyelashes?

Yes, false strip-lashes are included with everyone’s makeup application - Bride, bridesmaids, mothers, and attendants. Only cluster/individual lashes can be used for the Bride.

What all is included in your wedding makeup services?

All makeup services include luxury skin preparation, full-traditional makeup application, false strip eyelashes, and a makeup touch-up kit (included: 2 beauty sponges with extra foundation & concealer, 1 powder puff with extra powder, a lip touch up, blotting sheets, and a mint).

Can you accommodate different skin tones and types?

Absolutely! I have experience working with all skin tones and types and will customize skin care and makeup applications based on each individual’s needs.

Do you travel to the wedding venue?

Yes, I am a traveling makeup artist and can travel to your location. Travel fees may apply depending on location and distance.

Do you offer hair styling services?

No, I am a Makeup Artist and specialize in professional soft and full glam makeup application. However, if you need a hairstlist, I am happy to recommend talented hairstylists I have worked with in the past! Let me know if you’d like referrals, and I’d be glad to help.

Do you have a team for larger bridal parties?

Yes, for larger bridal parties, I can bring additional artists to ensure everyone is done on time. Every single one of my additional artists have been thoroughly trained by me to replicate my style so that each person is getting the Contoured by Katie experience.

What happens if I need to reschedule or cancel?

If you need to reschedule, I will do my best to accommodate. However, there is NO guarantee that I will be available on the rescheduled date since wedding bookings happen years in advance. All deposits and payments are non-refundable, but they can be transferred to a new date within the same year if available. Cancellations must be made 90-days prior to your scheduled wedding date or else the Bride is responsible for paying the remaining balance.

Do you offer bridal trials?

Yes! Bridal trials are not required, however, I HIGHLY recommend booking a trial especially if you have never had your makeup professionally done before or have specific concerns with your makeup. A trial allows us to get to know each other, discuss the look you want to achieve, and be on the same page moving forward if there are any changes or adjustments you want to make before the big day.

What should I do to prepare for my bridal trial?

Come with a clean, exfoliated face. It is important you exfoliate and cleanse your face right before your appointment. Bring inspiration photos from my website or social media pages and wear a white or light-colored top to mimic your wedding dress. More details about preparing for your trial will be provided with booking.

Can I bring guests to my Bridal Trial?

I completely understand that getting your bridal makeup done is an exciting moment, and you may want to share the experience with a friend or family member. However, I have a strict NO-guest policy for trials and here’s why:

A Personalized Expereince – The bridal trial is all about YOU! It’s our time to get to know each other, refine your vision, and ensure you feel absolutely beautiful. Having extra voices in the room can sometimes make it harder for you to fucus on what you truly want and love.
Your Opinion Matters Most – I want you to have the chance to see yourself in your bridal makeup and form your own opinion before hearing feedback from others. This helps ensure that your final look is a reflection of your personal style and comfort.
Respect for My Services – As a professional MUA, I also offer makeup lessons as a separate service. Allowing someone to observe and take notes during your trial would be unfair to the value of that offering. My goal is to give every client–whether a bride or student–the full experience they’re paying for.

What happens if someone in my bridal party decides last minute they want makeup?

For each wedding, I only pack the required products, tools, and materials for the contracted number of services agreed upon in your makeup contract. For instance, each person gets a makeup touch-up kit and a new brush set per each makeup service. If someone on the day of decides they want makeup services, I will not be able to accommodate because I will not have the additional makeup kit or brush set to complete their service.

What if someone in my bridal party who signed up for makeup services decides they do not want makeup services anymore, can’t attend the wedding, are no longer apart of the bridal party, etc.?

I totally understand that things happen and sometimes plans change! However, the Client is responsible for paying for the agreed upon services as signed upon in the contract. For example, if you sign up for 10 services total–1 Bride, and 9 bridesmaids–but then 3 bridesmaids later find out they cannot attend the wedding, you are still responsible for paying for all 9 bridesmaid services. You are always welcome to substitute in another person for these services, but services cannot be subtracted once signed in the contract. Additional makeup services can be added to your contract as long as it is 90-days prior to your wedding date.

Who is the MUA responsible for communicating with?

I will only communicate directly with the bride, as she is the client who hires me for the wedding day. All communication–whether it’s about scheduling, makeup preferences, or any other details–will be between the two of us. If you have a wedding planner or coordinator, I am happy to work with them on the morning makeup schedule with given notice.

Please note that I am not responsible for collecting payments from members of your bridal party or for communicating schedules to them. It is the bride’s responsibility to relay information and coordinate with her bridal party. By booking my services, the bride acknowledges and accepts these communication responsibilities.

What forms of payment do you accept?

All forms of payment are through my booking software system, HoneyBook. Payments can be made through HoneyBook via credit or debit card. Once booked, I will send you an invoice through HoneyBook for your deposit and remaining balance.

How do you keep products and tools sanitary between services?

Sanitation is a top priority for me to ensure the safety and well-being of every client. Here’s how I maintain the highest level of sanitation during makeup applications:

Each client receives their own separate makeup touch-up kit, which includes brand new sponges, and powder puff, as well as a fresh set of brushes. I do not reuse of clean brushes between clients–everyone gets their own fresh set to eliminate any risk of cross-contamination.
All makeup products, including but not limited to eyeshadow palettes, powders, and lip products, are sprayed with 70% alcohol before and after each use to kill bacteria and germs.
All of my loose powders (setting powder) are depotted into spray bottles so that the powder can be dispensed onto a palette or clean powder puff, rather than applied directly from the container.
Disposable applicators are used for mascara, eyeliner, and lips–I never double-dip! Each client gets a fresh wand that is used once and then discarded.
Cream and liquid products are never applied directly from the container onto the face–they are scooped out with a sanitized spatula and placed on a mixing palette before application.
Work surfaces and tools are disinfected with 70-99% alcohol between clients to maintain a clean and sanitary setup throughout the day.
I sanitize my hands before, during and after every client and wear gloves when necessary or depending on client preferences.

What if I have a known allergy to makeup or skincare products/brands?

Before your wedding date, I ask all clients to fill out my makeup consultation form that helps me customize your makeup experience. This form allows you to share important details, including:

Your skin type, skin tone, and any specific concerns
Any previous makeup experiences (good or bad)
Your makeup comfortability and familiarity (beginner to advanced)
How you do your makeup everyday or for a special event
The desired look you want to achieve
Most importantly, any known allergies to makeup or skin care products

If you have an allergy, it is crucial to disclose it on this form so I can identify and separate any products that may cause a reaction. I take every precaution to ensure your safety by using suitable products for your skin. However, if an allergic reaction occurs and the allergy was not disclosed prior to the appointment, I cannot be held responsible or liable. If you have severe allergies or sensitivities, I highly recommend scheduling a bridal trial in advance to test products and ensure your skin’s comfort on your wedding day.

How does it work with a separate hair and makeup artist/company?

I specialize in makeup services only and do NOT offer hairstyling. However, I am always happy to refer hairstylists I’ve worked with before and highly recommend. To keep everything running smoothly, I typically create a draft makeup schedule and send it to the Bride or wedding planner. They will then coordinate with the hairstylist to ensure both services are well-timed.

I never assign specific names on my makeup schedule (just general labels like Bridesmaid 1, 2, 3) so that if hair is available before makeup, or vice versa, there’s flexibility.
The key is to make sure the hairstylist and I always have someone in our chair at all times so that we stay on track.
The only thing we avoid is working on the same person at the same time, as that can be difficult for both stylists.

With good communication and coordination, everything flows seamlessly, ensuring a stress-free and efficient beauty experience for you and your bridal party!

How do I know if we would be a good fit for each other?

If you love makeup and are drawn to soft and full glam looks, then I am your girl! My makeup style is very consistent, so if you love the looks on my website and social media, you can feel confident that your bridal makeup will have the same polished, flawless finish.

I also strive to be more than just a makeup artist– I want you to feel comfortable, like you’re getting ready with a friend. If you’re looking for a MUA who brings good energy, professionalism, and a fun relaxed vibe for your wedding day, we’d be a great fit!

However, if you never wear makeup or are looking for a very minimal, barely-there bridal look, I am not the best choice for your style. My expertise lies in creating elevated, glamorous versions of you–so if that is what you’re envisioning, we’re the perfect match!

Can I bring children to my makeup appointment/on the wedding day?

While I absolutely love kids and want them to be a part of your special day, I do not allow children in my working area. This is for safety reasons, as there are several potential hazards, inlcuding heavy ring lights, extension cords, and breakable mirrors.

You are welcome to bring your kids, nieces, nephews, or little ones, but they must remain outside the working makeup space. They are not allowed to sit in your lap or the makeup chair, and they should not touch any tools or products. This is to ensure that everything stays safe and organized for the bridal party’s prep. Safety is always my top priority!

What if I do not want my pictures or video taken?

I completely understand that not everyone is comfortable with having their pictures or videos taken, but I reserve the righ to decline clients who do not want any photos or videos taken during their appointment. As an artist, I rely on my portfolio to showcase my work, my talent, and to attract future clients. I can only accept clients who are willing to allow the release of their photos and videos for social media and marketing purposes.

If you’re not comfortable with this, I may not be the right fit for your wedding day, as I need the ability to share the work I’ve spent hours perfecting. My goal is always to create beautiful results, and I love sharing those moments to continue growing my business.

What if you cancel for my wedding date because of some unforeseen event?

I want to assure you that I will always do my best to avoid cancelling on a client. I never want to cancel unless it’s due to a dire emergency or an unforeseen event beyond my control. If something comes up where I must cancel, I will do everything in my power to make it right:

If I have advanced notice that I must cancel, I will send one of my trained artists, who is trained to replicate my style, process, and techniques. They will provide the same level of quality and results you expect from me.
In the very rare event that I cannot find an artist to step in due to an unforeseen circumstance, I will provide the bride with a full refund for the services booked, as long as I am alive and didn’t pass away in an accident (Morbid I know, but I always want to answer the question of “what if?”)!

I truly value my clients and their special day. I give 110% to each and every client and will always do my best to take precautions to avoid such situations.