As a makeup artist, do you often wonder how much to charge brides for your services? It’s alright to have questions. When Angeline started out as a freelance makeup artist, figuring out how to set prices was one of the hardest parts of the business - wanting to be fair to the bride while still making a reasonable profit to keep doing the work she loves.
If you’re in that same spot now - wanting to be fair to the bride while making a fair return on your time - this guide is for you. Here you’ll find the factors that go into pricing bridal makeup, along with current market rates, so you can set a number with confidence.
Average Wedding Hair & Makeup Cost
The average wedding makeup and hair cost in the U.S. is around $300. That said, prices typically range from $150 to $600 depending on the service location and the makeup style the client wants.
Good news: if you meet any of the following, you may be able to charge $1,000 or more as a makeup artist:
- You have experience working in the field.
- You’ve completed proper MUA training.
- You have valid proof of skill or a strong portfolio.
- You have connections in the industry.
What’s Included in the Price
You don’t have to offer everything you’ve got for $600 - just make sure you decide on a clear list of hair and makeup services for each price tier you provide. A client paying $1,000 should get more services or a higher level of quality than one paying $600. Here’s a guide to deciding what belongs in each tier of your MUA pricing:
$150 to $600 MUA service: traditional makeup, plus a blowout hairstyle or updo, typically costs between $45 and $95. This tier can also include last-minute touch-ups and a few additional small services. Trial runs can be charged separately, averaging around $75.
$1,000 or more MUA service: this range is typical for professional airbrush makeup. It often includes a free trial run plus additional hours of on-site makeup, with on-site time ranging from $30 to $125 per hour. Some artists cover only the bride at this level, while others extend top-tier hair and makeup to the bride’s mother, mother-in-law, and bridesmaids.
Should You Offer a Wedding Hair & Makeup Trial?
That depends on two things: what the client is paying you, and your own preference. If your paycheck is satisfactory, you may want to offer a free trial. Otherwise, it’s entirely your call to charge $75 or less for one, or skip it altogether.
How to Set Your Price for Bridal Makeup
Now that you know what goes into pricing bridal makeup, it’s time to think about setting your own number. Keep these in mind:
- Decide what services you want to offer, and at what price point.
- Determine your target market and what they’re willing to pay.
- Price your services based on your experience, training, and portfolio.
- Ask around and see what other professional makeup artists in your area are charging.
- Be flexible with pricing, and be willing to negotiate - raise your rates as you grow in the profession.
- Offer discounts or promotions to attract new clients.
- Increase your pricing for destination-wedding makeup services.
- Get creative with pricing - consider package deals or group discounts.
- Be transparent with pricing, and give clients a clear breakdown of the services they’re paying for.
- Most importantly, be confident and know that you’re worth it.
Bottom Line
Even as a beginner freelance makeup artist in Frisco or anywhere else, you can become confident and charge the right price. All you need is a guide like this one, and you’re good to go. If you need assistance down the line, don’t hesitate - feel free to contact us anytime.
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