Photo: Getty Images
It's every bride's worst nightmare: a wedding-day beauty look gone terribly wrong. So what do you do when that hair and makeup trial you scheduled doesn't exactly turn out according to plan? Instead of immediately placing blame on your stylist, consider what you could do differently next time too. We talked to Teddi Cranford, founder of White Rose Collective, to get her advice on how to handle a beauty trial fail.
Take Preventative Measures
First things first, you want to do everything in your power to prevent a situation like this from popping up. That means not jumping the gun on booking your hair and makeup trial if you haven't picked out your wedding dress, venue or date yet. "Your beauty look should be curated around the other wedding details," explains Cranford. Ask your married friends for some references, and make sure you do your own research to see if a particular person is a good fit. "Your hairstylist and makeup artist should have a clear sense of your style and inspiration photos should have already been exchanged prior to the appointment."
Speak Up
Communication is critical, not just before your trial but during it as well. "Try to be yourself, and be completely honest and open," advises Cranford. "Share your bad beauty experiences and your best ones too." That way, your hair and makeup artist can get to know you even better. Having a conversation and really collaborating throughout the entire process is so important, says Cranford. "You have to try things together and experiment. Both you and your stylist must speak up."
See More: Must-Know Tips for Curly-Haired Brides
Go Back for a Second Trial
Unless the first one was a total disaster and the person wasn't willing to listen, much less capable of making the requested changes, give your stylist or makeup artist a second chance. "When things don't go well, you can typically get a sense if someone is going to be able to get there with you," notes Cranford. "The stylist should follow up, and you should offer feedback. For example, if your hair fell limp after a few hours or you were hoping for a more natural makeup look, say so." And remember, if you do go back for a second trial come in with firm opinions and a laundry list of specific things you were bothered by the last time.
Know When to Cut Ties
Or be self aware enough to know when it's you that's the problem! As Cranford pointed out earlier, sometimes brides come in prematurely. If you aren't sure of your own vision, you can't expect your stylist or makeup artist to be either. Second trial didn't pan out? Assuming you followed the advice above, it's probably time to cut ties.
Find a New Stylist
If you do decide it's best to move on to a new stylist, Cranford recommends really going in smart. "Understand who their client is and self-evaluate to see if it matches up with your style. Having a connection with your beauty professional is key."