You’ve booked the perfect makeup artist for your event, and they’ve worked their magic, leaving you feeling confident and radiant. Now the moment to tip has arrived. Knowing how much to tip makeup artists is essential for showing appreciation and maintaining good relationships.
Tipping etiquette can be tricky, especially with beauty services. This guide will explain everything you need to know about tipping makeup artists.
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping isn’t just about good manners; it’s a way to acknowledge the value that a service professional brings. Makeup artists are often independent contractors, and gratuities can make up a significant portion of their income. Just like servers at restaurants, makeup artists rely on tips to supplement their base pay.
Think about the expertise that goes into creating a flawless look. Makeup artists have honed their skills through years of practice and training. They also use high-quality products on your skin. They factor in your skin type, facial features, and the occasion to create a look that’s both beautiful and long-lasting.
For more insight on tipping etiquette, check out these guides from POPSUGAR and Allure.
How Much Should You Tip? A Breakdown
When deciding how much to tip your makeup artists, several factors come into play. The amount you tip may vary based on the type of service, the event, and the location. A general rule of thumb is to tip between 15% and 20% of the total service cost. However, this can vary based on your specific services.
Here’s a breakdown of tipping by service type and some additional considerations:
- Wedding or Special Event Makeup: For special occasions, a tip of 20% is standard. You want to acknowledge the artist’s contribution to your day and final look.
- Makeup Trials: Since trials are often as involved as the actual event makeup, best practice is to tip 15-20% of the trial cost.
- Routine Makeup: For regular appointments like a night out or a photo shoot, a tip of 15% to 20% is customary.
- Travel Fees: If your makeup artist traveled to your location, it’s customary to tip on the travel fee as well. Apply the same 15-20% range to this amount.
- Additional Services: Did your artist provide extras like lash application or intricate hairstyling? If so, consider including the cost of these services when calculating your tip.
For example, let’s say your makeup application costs $100 and the artist traveled to your location for a $50 fee. A 15% tip would come to $17.50 for the makeup service and $7.50 for travel, totaling $25. A 20% tip would be $20 and $10, respectively, for a total of $30.
Choose Kelsey Marie Artistry: Talented Makeup Artists You’ll Love Tipping
At Kelsey Marie Artistry, we understand the importance of feeling confident and beautiful on your special day. Our team of experienced makeup artists will create a flawless look that enhances your natural features and makes you feel radiant.
Ready to chat about your makeup needs and secure your date? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My artist is also the owner of the company. Should I tip them?
A: If the business owner went above and beyond, a small token of appreciation or a raving review would be lovely.
Q: My bridesmaids are paying for their own hair and makeup. Should they also cover their tips?
A: It’s kind of you to consider this! Tipping is ultimately up to each bridesmaid. You can suggest the standard 15-20% tip, but let them decide what works for their budget.
Q: Should I tip more if I’m the bride?
A. You can certainly tip a little more as the bride if the artist played a significant role in your special day.
Q: I had separate hair and makeup artists, but both are from the same company. Should I tip them equally?
A. Not necessarily. Tip each artist based on their individual service fee. If one artist spent significantly more time or provided more complex work, you can adjust your tip accordingly.
Q: How can I help ensure I’m satisfied with the service?
A: Communication is key! During your consultation, discuss your desired look, show inspiration photos, and ask questions. A reputable artist will listen to your concerns and make you feel comfortable with the process.
Q: Should I provide meals for my hair and makeup artists?
A: This is a thoughtful gesture, especially for long appointments. Offering snacks, drinks, or a light lunch shows your appreciation for their time. However, it’s not mandatory.
Q: In what circumstances should I tip above 20 percent?
A: Consider tipping over 20% if your artist went above and beyond in any way. This could include exceptional service, last-minute changes, intricate work, or simply creating a positive and calming experience.