FAQ's

Ok, here is a wonderfully long list, full of (hopefully) useful information. It might be a tad long…. Please use your computers keyword function to find the most frequently asked questions here. On a Mac you can press ‘Command + F’ and type your keyword into the box that will appear. I’m not sure about other operating systems, but I know you can easily find your answers below.

1. Where can I get pricing information for bridal makeup & hair services?
Every bride has different needs. You can email Rachel here for the current bridal brochure.

2. May I have a quote for makeup services?
Absolutely! Please fill out this form so that we may accurately quote our services.

3. Do you offer on- location services for other special events or only for weddings?
Yes, we offer hair and makeup services for many different events you may have, including family, corporate and workshops. We are full time beauty artists and will travel to your location any day of the week.

4. What type of makeup products do you use?
We use a variety of pro and high-end luxury makeup brands. All of the products in our kit are hypo-allergenic, suitable for sensitive skin, and used for their efficacy. We can also accommodate vegan product requests. Have an allergy? Just let us know and we will strive to accommodate.

5. Do you offer discounts?
No, we do not offer any discounts on our services.

6. Do you offer group discounts?
No, we do not offer any discounts on our services.

7. How do I know your artists and stylists are qualified? 

At B Pretty we are professionally trained, certified and experienced makeup artists. All artists and assistants have been handpicked by Rachel personally. Rachel is the main artist and has 19 years of makeup experience.

7. What is your cancellation policy for makeup trials?
For in-studio appointments, we require 48-hour notice to reschedule. Any retainer paid will be moved to the rescheduled date. For on-location services, seven day’s notice is required to reschedule and transfer any retainer payment. All retainer’s paid are non-refundable despite any cancellations. 

8. Do you offer facials leading up to my wedding day?
No, B Pretty is a makeup studio and are not trained aesthetician’s. As part of B Pretty services, luxury skin prep is included with services on the day of the wedding. We also provide coaching and skin consultations for clients, based on our education and experience in the health sciences. As part of a booked services, coaching and referrals are available to ensure your skin will look the best for your wedding.

9. Do you offer waxing services?
No, B Pretty is a makeup studio and we are not trained aesthetician’s. We offer recommendations in the Guelph and surrounding area for services, based on well-built relationships over the many year’s of operation in this area.

10. What are the difference between airbrush and traditional makeup applications?
Airbrush makeup comes in very thin, liquid like product and is sprayed through a machine. Airbrush application is very sheer, and applied by spraying light layers over the skin to achieve the desired look. Traditional makeup is just as versatile and applied with a brush. The techniques are different but expertly done. At B Pretty, we use traditional makeup application as that is our Artist’s preference. Airbrush services are available, if deemed necessary after consultation. When reviewing our portfolio, please note that all the images shown were done with traditional makeup application.

11. Are you able to work with a variety of skin tones and ethnicities? 

Absolutely! We are professional trained and certified with makeup to match every skin tone. We are trained to see undertones and skin varieties and carry makeup for every tone. In fact, B Pretty takes this so seriously, we offer custom cosmetics to create cosmetics for everyone. You can check out our custom cosmetics here

12. Are you able to cover blemishes/ skin issues?
The easy answer is yes. As professional artists, colour correcting is a part of our service. However, keep in mind that any raised skin, bumps or texture, can not be covered with makeup. They may appear diminished but cannot be erased. Redness or discolouration can be expertly corrected but we cannot flatten or otherwise change the texture of your skin.

13. Are you able to cover tattoos?
Definitely! We are experts at tattoo coverage and use waterproof makeup to ensure our work lasts. For an accurate quote a video consultation is required. You are welcome to book the complimentary consultation here.

14. What products should I avoid if I am getting waxed before my wedding?
I highly recommend getting waxed seven days before makeup services. Before and after waxing, avoid any products containing AHA’s, BHA’s, or benzoyl peroxides. I usually recommend threading instead of waxing. Please note, your makeup service includes eyebrow shaping and we can also tweeze at your request, so clean up your brows.

15. Why is the bride more expensive than everyone else?
The price of the bride includes lashes, touch up lip product and travel services in a 40 km area.

16. What if I just want you to service my bridesmaids. Do I still have to pay the higher bridal rate?
Yes, one contact person will be charged the higher fee. As the service contract is only with one person, you can take the total contract price and divide it by the total number of people getting services done to get an even price for the whole party.

17, Who qualifies as an attendant?
In the brochure, services are listed for attendants. These are any guests besides the bride. This can be bridesmaids, mother of the brides, aunts, future-in-laws, grandmas, master of ceremonies, or other guests of the wedding that would like services. We are more that happy to service anyone at your location that would like makeup services for your wedding day. 

18. Do you travel to do makeup out of province or country?
Yes, we do travel! Travel packages are available upon request, after a complimentary consultation where we discuss all the details.

19. Do you charge a travel fee?
Yes, we charge a $1.25 per kilometre for all locations more than 40 km round-trip from the Guelph B Pretty home-based Studio.

20. What do you charge for destination weddings?
Each wedding is different. We are happy to offer a complimentary consultation and prepare a quote once we have all your event details.  

21, Can I work with you from long distance?
Absolutely! We work with a lot of clients that travel in from other parts outside of the Guelph and surrounding area. Everything necessary to book can be done via email, phone, zoom or FaceTime.

22. Do I need to come into the studio to do a contract?
No, it is not necessary to meet in person to do a contract. We use an online software system for all our contracts and invoices. If you feel more confident meeting in person, we are happy to accommodate that preference. 

23. Do you have a minimum for on- location services?
Yes, there is a minimum for on-location services. The minimum is the bride plus 3 people or $750 in day-of services.

24. What if I can't meet the minimum? Do you offer just hair and makeup for the bride?
Yes, we have a bridal only package that includes hair and makeup services, plus a stand-by service for $995. We also off in-studio services for Friday and Sunday weddings at the rate of $375.

25. May we use a hair stylist or makeup artist from another service provider for other members of the wedding party?
Yes, we are happy to book B Pretty for both or either hair and makeup services. We are happy to take on one of those services and will work with other artists or teams if requested. However, we will not share makeup or hair services with other artists and have a penalty fee in such scenarios. We want your look to be flawless and cohesive and pride ourselves on our standard of services.

26. How soon do I need to book my wedding makeup and hair?
Dates are held with a signed contract and retainer. Once you book your venue and photographer, we recommend securing your hair and makeup artist. If you are inquiring for a given date, we send a brochure for your reference and then book a consultation call. After the consultation call, when your services are selected on the brochure, you will receive a contract proposal for you to review. Once the contract is sent, you have seven days to sign and make the retainer payment. Once that is done, the date is secured. If you do not reply in seven days, the date is not held and will be offered to the next inquiring party.

27. Do you offer makeup for engagement pictures, rehearsal dinner, boudoir
pictures, bachelorette parties, etc?
Oh, yes! As a full time professional artist, Rachel offers makeup services for all event types. Rachel is also a permit with the film union in Toronto and experienced with the techniques required for film and photography. We recommend you contact us immediately when you have other dates in mind, to secure your booking. Appointments are usually held in the B Pretty home-based studio, but travel may be accommodated.

28. Where do the makeup and hair trials & in studio appointments take place?
All of our makeup previews and in-studio appointments take place in our home-based studio in the southern end of Guelph. There is street parking available.

29. When can I book my makeup and hair preview (trial)?
Appointments are available through out the week, schedule depending. Most Saturdays are booked for weddings, and film work can be Sunday through Saturday. As such, we recommend booking in advance.

30. What if I am unable to make my scheduled preview/trial appointment? Can we
reschedule? What is the cost?
We understand that last minute changes can occur and we require 48 hours to transfer your retainer to another date. There is no additional charge to a date transfer. If you miss your appointment, the retainer paid will be kept and you are welcome to reschedule at your convenience at the full rate for services. 

31. Are previews/trials included in the makeup price for the bride?
No, Hair and makeup previews are not included in any of the rates provided.

32. How long do makeup or hair previews/trials take?
Makeup or hair previews typically take 75 minutes and include consultation before and after service. Makeup and Hair previews are typically 120 minutes and we ask you to book a 30 minute buffer to ensure we are not stressed for time.

33. How long will services the day of take?
Services on the day of your wedding will not take as long as the preview. On the day of, we will provide a timeline, that you will approve a minimum of six weeks prior. We usually budget 90 minutes for bridal hair and makeup and 60 minutes for attendants. If we are only booked for makeup, we budget 60 minutes for the bride and 45 minutes for each attendant.

34. What is the purpose of a trial(preview)? Is it required?
The purpose of the preview is to establish the look for your wedding day. We recommend booking your preview so you can see how the makeup will sit on your skin, test what colours/style you’d like to try and establish how the makeup lasts throughout the day/night. Any feedback helps us know what changes need to be made, including adjusting the skin prep, the application technique and artistry needed to address any concerns. Previews are not mandatory and merely suggested for your peace of mind.

35. How many looks do I get in a trial?
A preview (trial) usually consists of one main look and a variation of that look. If a completely different style or look is desired, we can adjust during the appointment. 

36. When do you recommend getting a preview done?
We recommend booking your preview two to three months in advance of your wedding. If you are anxious, you are welcome to book a preview immediately followed by a second booking closer to your wedding date.

37. Can I do a makeup trial before booking?

Absolutely! If you would like to experience our service before signing a contract, you are welcome to book as soon as you are able. We suggest contacting us immediately, as we do not hold dates without the signed contract and retainer.

38. What should I bring to my preview appointment?

Before your preview appointment, please email pictures of your gown, flower selections, centre pieces, jewelry, shoes and any hair decorations you are considering. We also recommend sending pictures of wedding makeup you like and pictures you don’t like. We will review those images and discern what makeup styles and colours will suit you. You are also welcome to bring your makeup bag, so we can review what you are currently using, the textures and colours you are used to, and build a look for you that you will be comfortable with. Don’t worry, we aren’t using your makeup, it’s just a way for us to gauge what you are used to and what we need to do to make sure you are comfortable with our services.

39. What do I do if I need to change any details (location, time, number of people) 

for my wedding?

If you need to make any changes, please contact us immediately. We will try our hardest to work with you on any details. We may not be able to accommodate every change, but we will do our best. If it’s close to the wedding date, the service fees remain the same, even if a party member drops out. You are welcome to change who gets services done, as long as the number of services we are contracted for remains the same. Date changes are sometimes possible, but not always.

40. Who do I call on the day of for any last minute issues?

You can reach us on the cell number given in the contract.

41. What if our location changes?

Your travel fee may change based on location changes. Please contact us for an updated quote.

42. Is there anything I need the day of the wedding?

On your wedding day, we will arrive with everything needed to complete services. We request a large table be available for our use, as well as access to an electrical outlet. We bring our own lights, so please don’t stress over window access. If meeting in a private venue, like a home, we ask to be placed on the main floor for services to avoid going up and down stairs - we pack quite a lot with us, and stairs can be physically challenging with our kits.

43. Should I make a schedule for my group for the day of the wedding? 

Yes! You are more than welcome to create a schedule and forward it to me. I can provide a basic outline for you to fill in, please contact us.

44. How should my girls and I prepare for the day of? 

We always suggest that everyone come with a clean and well moisturized face, and dry hair. When you book with B Pretty, we will provide information in the months or weeks prior to your wedding, so you feel confident and well prepared for our time together. For makeup applications, we provide lip creams and encourage everyone to bring their chosen colour, just in case.

45. What lipstick do you recommend? 

We are happy to make colour recommendations after our bridal consultation. Understanding your wedding theme, colours and style assists us in keep a cohesive look that will flatter each person. We also offer lipstick making workshops, where we play with colours and make your own lipsticks. You can view that here.
 

46. Are lashes included in my services?
Yes! Lashes are always included. We use drop lashes for comfort and customization. These are little lash clusters and provide the most comfortable wear for our clients.

47. What should I have with me throughout the wedding day for touch- ups?
Every bridal booking includes a lip colour and blotting sheets for your wedding day. Rachel custom makes lipsticks in consultation with you. If you book a makeup preview, we will make the lipstick at that appointment. We also offer travel sized lip creams in a variety of colours for all attendants. 

48. What if I want to purchase my lip colour as attendant gifts for my wedding day?
Yes! Please contact us if you’d like to gift a full size lip cream or lipstick for your wedding party.

49. Am I responsible for parking fees?
Yes. If your venue has a parking fee, you are responsible for that charge.

50. What if I am unsatisfied with my makeup?
Yikes! We would hate to have that happen. If at any time you are unhappy with some aspect of our work, please let us know immediately. We know it’s nothing personal, each person is unique and has a different idea of what would be best for them. We are happy to work with our clients to make sure they feel confident when they leave our makeup or hair station. This is your wedding day and we want your party to be happy!

51. How much is my wedding makeup deposit/retainer?
40% of the total contracted services is due with the signed contract. The balance is due seven days prior to services.

52. Is my deposit/retainer refundable?
No, your retainer (deposit) is non-refundable. If you cancel within 60 days before your event as contracted, your balance will be due in full.

53. What type of payment methods do you accept?
All services are paid online via our contract platform HoneyBook. We accept credit and can also do email money transfer, if that is preferred.

54. At what point do you need an assistant?
Ok, I confess, I love working with an assistant, and will usually bring one with me for smaller wedding parties, at no cost to you - though this is not guaranteed. Once the contracted services reach six or more, there is a surcharge of $150 and assistants are assigned two weeks prior to your wedding day. Assistants are used to decrease time on the day of, and to support the beauty process. If you have more than 8 people, a second artist might be contracted at a rate of $250. Assistants and second artists are there to ensure we stay on time and act as “insurance” on your special day.

55. What are overtime charges & when are they incurred?
Overtime charges come into effect when the artist/stylist is not finished at the contracted “Service End Time” through no fault of their own. With so many years in business, we are cognizant of what can happen during our time together, and we will verbalize any timing concerns, and will be clear when a surcharge is in danger of being incurred. These charges are only incurred through the fault of the client. This can happen when a client is late or not ready to get their services done at the scheduled time, or forget to brush their teeth, put in contacts or need to interrupt services for some other reason. Sometimes interruptions prevents the artist from working, and this greatly impacts the timeline. We will always work with our clients to avoid these charges.

56. What if I pay for someone (an attendant) on my contract and they back out of
services for my wedding day?
If someone backs out of contracted services, you are welcome to replace them with. There will not be any partial refunds but we can help transfer the unused portion of payment to another service.

57. Do I have to pay you in one sum or can my maids and moms pay individually?
We will send you an invoice and reminder to pay online. You can add on any tip or gratuity as you wish.

58. Are you going to stay until after the ceremony in case I cry?
Your service time is noted on your contract. We do offer a stand-by service where will stay after the ceremony to change your look or provide touch ups during photos. This is one of our favourite services and comes highly recommended. Contact us to learn more about this best selling service.

59. What's your worst bridezilla story?
After 19 years in service, we have been through it all! Luckily, we strive to work with our clients and ensure their happiness. Unfortunately, that isn’t always possible. To avoid any catastrophe’s, I offer complimentary consultations to make sure we can work together. We really do strive to provide exceptional service and enjoy working with a variety of clients.

60. Can you make me look 20 years younger? 

Actually…. Almost! One of our specialties is mature makeup, because we work to flatter the skin and enhance features. While we aren’t magician’s, we know our skills and feel confident in our ability to make our clients look good - real good. We use exquisite skin care that soften facial features and can minimize wrinkles. We choose makeup that will leave you looking radiant and fresh.

61. Is your mascara waterproof?
Yes, we use waterproof mascara and disposable wands for our makeup clients. We then like to tuck in lash clusters to flatter your eyes.

62. Is your makeup waterproof?
The makeup we use is applied and set in a way to last all day, through tears of joy and heavy dancing. We do have some specialty products that we can mix into our foundations and concealers that are positively divine and set perfectly for extra special days. We also finish with a makeup setting spray that sets your makeup for 16 hours. Just enough wear for you to look glowing all night. If you’re extra anxious about the longevity of your makeup, consider the full day or standby package, as that is the best peace of mind and service for your wedding day.

63. How do I remove my false lashes? 

Using your favourite makeup remover or cleansing oil, apply a generous amount to your cotton pad and gently wipe in a down ward motion, from root to tip of your lashes. Repeat, gently. Rinse thoroughly. Do not pick, tug or pull your lashes.
 

64. Can you get rid of my pores/freckles completely? 

All of our work is done to flatter the face. While we can’t resurface your skin, we can pamper it and apply the correct products to smooth texture so you look radiant. We use foundation that can be sheer, and barely there, or full coverage and colour correcting. We will work with you to make sure you have a look you love.
 

65. Can you do men’s makeup and hair?
Absolutely! We can do male grooming and include those rates in our brochure. The only caveat is that all services must be done at the same location. Please note, B Pretty is not a barber or licensed hair stylist and all services fall under provincial guidelines.

66. Can I bring you home with me? 

We love this question! Haha, we get this question a lot and are pleased to offer makeup lessons and cosmetic creations like foundation, concealers and even customized skin care. So, let us pamper you on your wedding day, and then go ahead and book a workshop, lesson, or some other service, and let the relationship continue!
 

67. Why are you so much more expensive than other artists?
Our rates reflect our experience and operating expenses. We take our work seriously and are insured and registered for practice. We guarantee we will arrive on your wedding day, on time and ready to provide outstanding service. We will never cancel or ghost you and you can be assured that we won’t take your money and run. Anyone can pick up a makeup brush at Shopper’s Drug Mart and call themselves an artist - there’s almost been an epidemic of new artists that come and go, booking brides and canceling the day of. I have had many last minute clients over the years because other artists have disappeared on their booked clients. This is why we are different and run our business with the utmost integrity.

68. How long have you been doing makeup/hair? 

Rachel Jones started as a makeup artist in 2001, with her first wedding in 2002. She added on hair services in 2014, due to a demand for a local mobile hair stylist. B Pretty is known for flawless and clean makeup looks and boho or relaxed hair styles.

69. If I don't want the lashes is the price different? 

Lashes are included in the price but are not mandatory - though the price remains the same.

71. Can I bring friends with me to the makeup trial?
Yes! However, our studio is based in our home and can only accommodate one or two extra people. We usually recommend getting together with trusted family and friends after our services, for a fun night out - why not, you’re already looking amazing!

72. Can I bring my child with me to the trial?
Er, no. While I love children, they can be very distracting during our appointment. Please contact us if this needs further clarification. 

73. Can my bridesmaids use your makeup on the day of the wedding if they’re
not using your services?
We respectfully ask that no one touch our products or kit for sanitation and liability reasons. We appreciate your understanding in this.

74. Is your kit sanitary? I’m freaked out by germs.
Sanitation is our passion! Rachel has a science background and trains her team in the best sanitation practices. Each client gets a freshly cleaned brush set for their services, as well as new disposables. We use hibiclens hand soap and sanitizer between clients. We use alcohol to sanitize any metal tools and palettes between uses. We also use a new disposable palette for each client and wipe down our station with lysol wipes between people. We do not double dip our products, and if we do by accident, we toss that product and open a new one.

75. I loved my hair and makeup! How can I review your business? 

We love reviews and greatly appreciate them! If you’ve used our services, we would love to hear form you on google. If for some reason you were not happy with our services, please let us know directly. We want to be sure we offered you the highest level of service and if we fell short, we need to hear about it.