A few things your Make-Up Artist wants you to keep in mind.

So... what are you supposed to bring? Should you wear your own foundation? Is tipping necessary? Thankfully, like any professional, most MUAs will walk you through the process step by step — especially if you confess to being new to the process. They want you to love your experience, and to feel pampered, lovely, and well taken care of, so they're going to go the extra mile for you. It's really intrinsically part of their job.

A Make-up artist has a LOT of overhead, most of which comes right out of pocket. And well all know that make up isn't cheap. They haul all of their supplies to your location, give you 100 percent dedication and creative expertise, then painstakingly clean each tool and brush (or replenish their supplies) in order to keep their makeup kit up to code for you and the next client.

Even if you dont choose me to be your MUA, I want you to have a great experience. So, I have done my research and have talked to other MUA's and from that I have complied a list of things to consider and to do before your next consulation. This way, you can walk into your appointment, or sit down on your wedding day knowing your MUA thinks you're the best client they've ever had! Because if he/she's excited to work with you, you're pretty much guaranteed to look even more radiant!

1. Silence

Your MUA is doing their very best at creating that perfect cat eye you've begged him/her for, and nothing, I repeat, nothing is more difficult than trying to apply make up to a moving face. You'll have plenty of time to meet, greet and discuss your needs/wants before the application.

2. Create a "Look board"

Creating a mood board with images of the looks you envision gives your MUA well defined guidelines, ensuring you'll get the results you expect.When you say, "I want to look like Jennifer Lawrence," you're leaving a pretty wide margin for error. Except, it won't really be error, because your MUA will be imagining Jennifer Lawrence from the Silver Linings premiere, and you'll be thinking of Jennifer Lawrence from the Catching Fire premiere.

3. Please Do not demand the impossible.

Although your MUA will do everything in his/her power to give you the exact look you want, they are not going to be able to change the fact that you look like you. (Nor, for that matter, should you want her to. You're beautiful, obviously!)

That being said, all of the makeup in the world can't undo years or months of skin damage in one sitting. Plan on having an open and honest discussion with your MUA before she begins, and be realistic and accepting of what she tells you her limits might be. If she says something won't work out, trust her. She/he's not trying to hold back — she/he wants you to love the end result!

4. Prep your face

If you want to look radiant on your wedding day, remember to spend the week (or at least day before) exercising a good moisturizing routine. Keeping your face and lips moisturized will ensure smooth and even application of makeup, less creasing, and a polished finish. The problem area where they're most likely to encounter leftover makeup is around the eyes

Wipe your eyeliner carefully with makeup removal pads, or use a lightweight oil to clean your face of excess, stubborn mascara and makeup.

5. Plan for small touch ups

Most MUAs agree that on big days, like your wedding day, it's always a good idea to plan a few moments later in the day to add a little powder to your look, blot any oil, and touch up your lipstick. So, sneak away between your ceremony and your reception and give yourself a quick check. Your look will last, since the benefit of working with an MUA is that she/he is trained to make looks built for longevity. But a little maintenance will keep you fresh that much longer, and you know you want to look stunning for that first dance with your sweetie!

6. Tipping

Like any service professional, your MUA will most certainly accept and appreciate a tip, although it isn't entirely expected. More than likely, their fee is enough to cover their travel cost, the supplies they provide (which have to be regularly replenished, and sometimes purchased specifically for a client's needs, and are not cheap), and their business expenses, plus a little bit more, because yes, they are in business to make a living.

Keep in mind that as a freelance artist (which many MUAs are), they are responsible for all of their insurance, marketing, fees, etc., so what may seem like a high cost really just covers the basics. If you're pleased with the service you've received, and you feel a tip is in order, your MUA will be honored (after all, they did just take care of you in a very personal way, and you wouldn't ask just anyone to paint your face).

But, if the service was above and beyond your budget, tipping at 20 percent isn't necessary — feel free to tip what you can afford. Or, if you really want to show your gratitude, recommend them to your friends and family. Your referral keeps them in business, and is one of the very best (and most sincere) thank you's you can extend.