Make-up: treatments, prices and duration
Professional make-up comes down to two things: how long it has to stay put and which photos it will end up in. A bridal look is built differently from an evening look, and airbrush behaves differently on skin than classic foundation. Below is what to expect in terms of time, price and preparation.
Day and evening make-up
An evening look takes 45 to 60 minutes and costs 45 to 80 euros. It is built up more heavily than day make-up: more layers, more setting, more emphasis on the eyes. Arrive with clean, cared-for skin and without heavy cream — a greasy base makes foundation shift within a few hours. Bring a photo of what you want; colour names mean different things to different people.
Bridal make-up and trial
Bridal make-up usually costs 120 to 250 euros and takes 1.5 to 2 hours on the day itself. A trial is part of the process and is either charged separately or included in the package; schedule it 4 to 8 weeks ahead, with the same skincare and in daylight. Ask whether touch-ups during the day are included and whether the artist travels with you — those are the two items that cause disagreement afterwards.
Airbrush and long-wear techniques
With airbrush the foundation is applied as a fine mist. That gives a light, even layer that photographs well and stays put — useful on hot days and at long celebrations. It costs 20 to 40 euros more than a classic look. The drawback: the texture is hard to touch up without the device, so ask for a small pot of the same shade to carry with you.
Frequently asked questions
What does bridal make-up cost?
In Belgium usually 120 to 250 euros. Ask whether the trial, touch-ups during the day and travel are part of that figure.
When should I book my trial?
4 to 8 weeks before the day itself, in daylight and using the same skincare you will use on the day.
How long does professional make-up last?
With good setting, 8 to 12 hours. Heat, oily skin and frequent touching shorten that; airbrush generally lasts longest.
Should I bring my own make-up?
No, the artist works with their own kit. Do bring your lipstick if you want to touch up in exactly the same shade during the day.
What is airbrush make-up?
Foundation sprayed on as a fine mist. The result is light and even, lasts a long time and photographs well.