1. Build a Portfolio That Speaks to Destination Weddings

Showcase your work in unique settings to attract clients planning destination weddings. Whether you’re collaborating on styled shoots or working with real brides, highlight your ability to deliver flawless looks in diverse environments.

2. Partner with Wedding Planners and Vendors

Destination wedding planners are key to booking your services. At MAB Artistry, we’ve built lasting relationships with wedding planners and other vendors across the globe, creating a network that brings consistent work. Attend networking events and offer to collaborate on destination wedding shoots.

3. Know How to Travel and Stay Organized

From Wyoming to Italy, working in remote locations requires extra planning. At MAB Artistry, we’ve perfected the art of managing travel logistics, including securing accommodation, handling travel expenses, and maintaining professionalism on-site.

4. Offer Destination-Friendly Services and Packages

Create specialized packages for brides traveling for their weddings, which may include hair, makeup, touch-ups, and travel fees. Make sure to price accordingly, factoring in your travel, kit expenses, and extra services. MAB Artistry’s destination packages are tailored to meet the needs of brides, ensuring seamless glam for their big day.

5. Use Social Media to Show Off Your Destination Work

Highlight your destination weddings across your social media platforms, showing off the beauty of the locations you’ve worked in. Use location-based hashtags and post behind-the-scenes shots to showcase your experience in unique settings, just like we’ve done for our weddings in Italy, Greece, and Mexico.

With these tips and our experience working worldwide, you’ll be jet-setting to the most beautiful locations, making brides feel stunning on their big day before you know it! Need help figuring out how to price yourself? Head to our blog on How To Price A Destination Wedding

The post 5 Ways to Get Started In Destination Weddings appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Studio Rent: If you rent a space for your business, this cost is deductible.

Home Office: If you work from home, you may qualify for a deduction based on the square footage of your office space.

Insurance: Business liability insurance, equipment insurance, and any other relevant policies.

Business Licensing: Fees for any local or state business licenses required to operate legally.

Legal and Professional Fees: Costs for consultations with accountants, lawyers, or business coaches.

Makeup Brushes: Any brushes or tools used for makeup application.

Cosmetic Products: Foundations, powders, eyeshadows, lipsticks, etc. used for clients.

Hair Styling Tools: Blow dryers, straighteners, curling irons, etc., if you also offer hairstyling services.

Beauty Equipment: Mirrors, lighting, facial steamers, etc. used in your practice.

Furniture: Items like chairs, tables, mirrors, etc. used in your studio or during client appointments.

Mileage: Deduct miles driven to and from client appointments, studio, events, or locations where you conduct business.

Travel Costs: Airfare, hotel stays, car rentals, meals, and other expenses for destination weddings or events.

Parking and Tolls: Fees paid for parking or tolls when traveling for business purposes.

Website Development & Maintenance: Cost for building or maintaining your website or blog.

Social Media Advertising: Costs associated with promoting your services via Facebook, Instagram, or Google Ads.

Business Cards & Print Marketing: Cost of printing cards, brochures, flyers, etc., to promote your business.

Photography: Professional photos of your work for your website, social media, or portfolio.

Classes & Workshops: Fees for attending makeup courses, styling workshops, or any other relevant industry training.

Books & Magazines: Subscriptions to beauty magazines or purchasing beauty books related to your business.

Certifications: Fees for any certifications you earn in makeup, hair styling, or related skills.

Office Supplies: Pens, paper, planners, and other supplies for managing your business.

Accounting Software: Programs like QuickBooks, or other tools you use for invoicing, scheduling, and keeping track of your business finances.

Scheduling Software: If you use tools like Acuity Scheduling or Booksy for client bookings.

Storage Solutions: Organizers or cases used to store your makeup and tools.

Client Gifts: Any small gifts or thank-you items given to clients can be deducted.

Client Meals: If you meet clients for business over a meal, a portion of the meal can be deducted.

Traveling with Clients: If you travel with clients for events, travel-related costs could be deducted.

Phone Bill: A portion of your phone bill is deductible if you use it for business calls, texts, or emails.

Internet Service: The part of your internet service that is used for your business is also deductible.

Depreciation on Large Equipment: If you purchase large equipment like cameras, or professional lighting that will last more than one year, you can deduct a portion of its cost each year.

Health Insurance: If you’re self-employed, you may be able to deduct your health insurance premiums, including dental and vision, for yourself and your family.

Wellness Programs: If you participate in programs that promote your health and are related to the business (i.e., relaxation techniques to deal with stress from work), those costs may be deductible.

Bank Fees: Any fees associated with your business bank account or business credit card.

Subscriptions: Costs for beauty or industry-related subscription services, like online platforms that teach new techniques or provide beauty industry trends.

Uniforms: If you wear specific clothing for your job (like a branded shirt), it may be deductible.

Make taxes even easier with our printable Beauty Artist Tax Cheat Sheet!

Important Note: Always consult a tax professional to ensure you are correctly documenting and claiming your deductions, as tax laws and rules can change. Keep all receipts, track your mileage, and stay organized to maximize your deductions!

The post 11 Must Know Tax Write-Offs For Beauty Artists appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Becoming a destination hair and makeup artist has been one of the most exciting parts of my freelance journey. I have felt incredibly lucky to be part of my clients’ weddings abroad while experiencing a new country and culture. I have now done multiple weddings in Italy, Greece, Mexico and the US including Wyoming, California, Colorado, Tennessee and New York.

Pricing a destination wedding has been a learning experience that once intimidated me. However, since I now have done a good amount of destination weddings and events, I feel comfortable pricing them out.

Lodging and Airfare

It is standard for the client to pay for your lodging and airfare. I typically like to book my own airfare as I’m particular about my flights. At the time of booking, I do some research on flights and include the estimated amount in my proposal. I sometimes upgrade my flight to business class but I don’t expect my clients to pay for business, just an economy or economy plus seat. In regards to lodging, it is ideal for the client to either provide a room at their resort or hotel starting the night before I begin working until the morning after the last event. I always like to arrive a full day in advance just in case there are any unexpected delays. I don’t travel at night in cities I’m not familiar with as a safety precaution so I always prefer to be on the move during the day. On a personal note, I usually extend my trip a few days before and after so that I can tour and experience the city I’m in. Brides and wedding planners can usually provide a list of nearby lodging they recommend for guests and vendors if you are not staying at the same resort. A great tip is to have the Bride and/or wedding planner send you the wedding page with all the details related to the wedding and location.

Meals and Transportation

It is customary to include a stipend for meals and transportation based on a real figure for that particular location. I usually ask the bride or wedding planner if it’s best to rent a car or take car service, and I research rates and include these in my proposal. Some resorts and locations are much more expensive than others so it is important to do your research. On one of my destination weddings, we stayed inside a private resort that included all meals and transportation paid for by the bride on the days we worked. This is the ideal scenario and you can require it.

Extra Expenses

All expenses for your trip are tax deductible since it’s a work related trip, but if you are eating at fancy restaurants, taking tours and other personal expenses, you can expect to cover these on your own. In addition, if you are traveling for a longer period of time to vacation, you can expect to cover these expenses on your own.

Pricing Your Actual Services

For destination weddings, you can expect to be providing more services and longer hours so the Bride feels like she’s getting her money’s worth by paying for your trip. This might include staying on site for touch ups, providing a second or third look, and providing services for the bridal party. With this in mind, it’s best to provide a daily rate up front that includes all the services above. You do not want to nickel and dime a bride for extras on a destination wedding. Be sure to include these into a daily rate that is beyond your usual charges. One of my destination weddings had me doing touch ups till very late at night. However I had worked out a generous daily rate and felt compensated enough for the work I did. 

Negotiating Your Rates 

Although destination weddings are incredibly exciting, they take a lot of time and energy…from booking flights to researching details and packing your kit. Make sure you really want to do the wedding and work with the wedding planner and/or bride! Otherwise, you will not enjoy the experience because of the amount of work. Traveling with your kit is stressful since you want to make sure you have everything you need, especially in remote and unfamiliar areas where you cannot quickly shop for replacements if something gets lost. With this in mind, a bride may want to negotiate your rates or get a service for free or discounted (like the rehearsal dinner hair and makeup). Again, if you really want the opportunity, be open to negotiation and know that the entire trip is a tax deduction and a step towards more destination work opportunities. 

Let me know your thoughts and share your experience with destination weddings! 

Xo,
Ana B.

Invest in your artistry by booking a class with MAB Academy! Learn from pro artists as they demo looks or upgrade your investment to include hands-on practice.

The post How To Price A Destination Wedding appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

All these sacrifices have paid off now because I am absolutely living my dream life and job. Now the question is: what are you willing to do to achieve your dreams?

Want help building your portfolio? Head to our MAB Academy page to see our latest class offerings and secure your seat!

The post Pro Series: 7 Practical Ways I Grew A Million Dollar Business appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

1.Plan In Advance

Ask your client for a picture of herself and her desired look in advance so your kit is prepped accordingly. It also gives you a chance to research the look and how you’re going to execute. You can even look up photos of your client online to see how they typically like their makeup done. This can also be a chance to confirm the address and start time!

2.Arrive 15-30 Minutes Early

Plan on arriving at least 15 to 30 minutes before the appointment time. I’d rather wait in my car and have wiggle room for the unexpected so I can set up in peace, than be anxious and fighting the clock. You also look more professional and build trust quicker with the client when you show you’re punctual.

3.Look Like An Artist

I’m always confused when an artist shows up to a client looking like they’ve rolled out of bed or just come from a club. Having pretty, but not over the top, hair and makeup and a put together outfit will help build trust immediately with your client. After all, YOU are the brand.

4.Document Your Work

Always take before and after videos & pictures of your work. This gives you content for your portfolio and a chance to review your work to see if there are areas to improve. Just ask for permission from your client first.

5.Follow Up

Follow up with your client the next day. Ask if there was anything you could improve on. I know it’s hard to hear criticism, but you won’t become a better artist without knowing what to work on! If she gives you only positive feedback, ask her to write an online review for you.

Sign up for the Academy Insider Newsletter to be the first to see my latest blogs on how to build your business!

The post Pro Series: 5 Ways To Stand Out As A Makeup Artist appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

With over 1,000 brides, weddings and events under our belt, we have a streamlined booking process that makes booking your beauty experience one less thing to worry about. It’s no wonder many wedding and event planners choose to work with us time and time again.

MAB has a dedicated full time administrative team whose only job is to answer your questions, move you along our seamless booking process, schedule your appointments, and handle any issues or changes that arise.

We offer a detailed beauty schedule for weddings and large events so there is no confusion about when artists are arriving and what time everyone will be ready.

Our private beauty studio in Tysons Corner, VA serves as a place to hold trials, meetings, lessons and appointments. It’s a beautiful and comfortable space with our clients in mind!

MAB offers a large team of makeup artists and hairstylists to fit any size of wedding party or event. We’ve had the privilege of providing beauty services for more than 25 people in a short window.

Our artists are thoroughly interviewed and go through a signature training process when they join MAB so we guarantee a great experience with our clients.

No one likes to think of the worst case scenario, but the reality is that cancellations due to illness or unexpected emergencies happen. With access to a large team, we can confidently provide a backup professional artist last minute if ever needed.

Our artists use professional-grade liquid brush cleaner that is 99.99% antimicrobial disinfectant. Our brushes and kits are sanitized between uses and before working with each new client. Additionally, our artists wear masks during appointments and obtain regular COVID-19 testing as needed. 

We are the go-to beauty team for many of DC’s top business leaders, C-suite executives, athletes, photographers, wedding and event planners. The reason is simple: our clients come first! We work to make sure you have the best experience possible and embrace your feedback to continually improve our services. 

Submit your inquiry to see if our artists are available for your special day! Click here to book.
Head to our Instagram for some hair & makeup inspo to bring to your trial!

The post Why Choose MAB? appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Is makeup your hidden passion but you don’t know where or how to get started? Are you wanting to make the leap into the beauty industry, but have no professional experience? I definitely remember my aspiring artist days so I can totally relate! I’ve put together five ways you can become a Pro Makeup Artist, starting with the one that lead me to a career in makeup.

1. WORK FOR A MAKEUP BRAND

I was lucky enough to get a job for MAC Cosmetics at the mall without having any prior training in makeup. Before applying, I had watched many tutorials on YouTube and had gained decent skills by practicing on myself and friends. I also had some retail and customer service experience which helped me sell myself during my interviews.

Pros: I received makeup training while getting paid! I was able to build my makeup kit using my employee discount, became excellent at customer service and learned how to do makeup on all types of skin tones and learn specific skills, like foundation matching and  false lash application.

Cons: Retail is tough for moms! Working weekends is a must when you work at a cosmetics counter or store, and sometimes you don’t get home until 10 PM! I didn’t have a lot of flexibility with my schedule so after one year of working as a retail makeup artist, I left to pursue a freelance career (which was the best decision of my life!).

2. GO TO A MAKEUP SCHOOL

A makeup school will provide hands on training and teach you fundamentals of color matching and makeup application. Depending on the school, you can learn more in depth on specific areas of the makeup industry such as special FX, editorial makeup and bridal.

Pros: Schools provide a basic kit, connections to other aspiring artists and industry pros, and in person training where you can ask questions and receive immediate feedback from instructors.

Cons: Most makeup schools will have a set schedule and require a significant monetary investment.

3. TAKE AN ONLINE MAKEUP COURSE

Online schools are very convenient for people who work a full time job, are busy parents and really need to learn at their own pace and time.

Pros: You can complete courses on your own schedule and the tuition is more affordable than traditional schools. A kit and brushes are often included in tuition.

Cons: Even though online courses offer tutors who review your work, you are missing the in-person feedback from actual instructors and clients.

4. SELF TEACH

With the incredible amount of free tutorials given by professional and celebrity artists through YouTube and social media, you can learn and practice on your own without ever attending a formal school.  There is no one stopping you from practicing on your friends and family, and working for free while you build your portfolio and experience.

Pros: Your education is free, and if you prove you are talented, persistent and dedicated to your craft, you will eventually begin to get paid work.

Cons: You are competing with artists who have formal training and experience. Certain types of clients will only work with artists that have completed formal training and have extensive professional portfolios, for example corporate and commercial clients.

5. INTERN FOR A PRO MAKEUP ARTIST

Assisting or working under a pro makeup artist is the best type of learning you will ever experience because it is real life! You’ll get to learn how the artist applies product on their clients first hand and see how the artist handles client interactions, which is a huge part of the job!

Pros: You get to witness real time interaction and artistry. You can possibly gain clients and work eventually through your connections.

Cons: You will get paid little to nothing until you are able to provide value to the artist or clients.

There you have it! Five ways to get your foot in the beauty door…all you need to do is start knocking! Every artist starts their journey as a beginner…you CAN achieve your makeup artistry dreams one step at a time!  

We are currently putting together an intensive three day makeup training program for beginners and aspiring artists in the DMV area! If you are interested in attending, send us an email at info@makeupbyanab.com and you will be the first to know when our program launches!

Love,

Ana B

The post How to Become a Professional Makeup Artist appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Photo by: Sarah & David Photography

You went to a makeup school, you’ve watched and practiced hours of YouTube makeup tutorials, you’ve even worked at MAC or Sephora as a retail artist and you’re ready to launch yourself into the freelance world, working with great clients and getting paid!

Booking great work is easier said than done. The truth is none of your schooling, your youtubing, or your hours at a counter will help if you don’t have a professional portfolio, and 50 makeup selfies on your Instagram does not make a portfolio. Here are some great first steps in building a makeup portfolio that will eventually lead to paid work.

WHAT KIND OF MAKEUP ARTIST ARE YOU?

First, decide what kind of makeup artist you want to be and build a portfolio of work that reflects the type of paid gigs you are hoping to get. For example, if you are looking to get into bridal makeup, you will want to pursue less fantasy or editorial looks and take a bridal approach to your portfolio building. 

GET COMFY WITH BEFORE AND AFTERS

In a perfect world, you would invite all your model friends over, do their makeup and get perfect pictures of them, right? Well, it’s almost that easy! With today’s super connected world, you can find “models” through social media or ask family and friends. Choose people who are photogenic and look relaxed in front of the camera. Make sure to take clear before and after photos of your model in good lighting (preferably natural light) so that potential clients can see your work. 

COLLABORATE WITH PHOTOGRAPHERS

Contact photographers to provide makeup application in exchange for professional pictures of your work on a model. In the industry, this is called TFP or “Trade for Prints”.  Chances are, there are photographers who are building their professional portfolios as well or looking to do styled shoots. A styled shoot is a (free) collaboration between creatives such as photographers, models, stylists and artists, where everyone contributes their talent and gets credit on the shoot. Look to collaborate with a photographer whose style works for the kind of makeup you are looking to showcase. For example, a natural light photographer is a good choice for a bridal makeup portfolio, whereas a studio photographer would be great for corporate or editorial makeup looks.

USE SOCIAL MEDIA TO YOUR ADVANTAGE 

Once you’ve got 10-20 pictures that showcase your work, create a page via Facebook and Instagram solely dedicated to your professional portfolio and post photos several times a week. Hint: Keep your page name straight forward and professional to make it easier for people to find you (using your actual name works!). Share your page with friends and family and potential clients. The biggest gift of social media is the immediate feedback people will give you. Likes and comments will give you an idea of what makeup looks resonate most with your audience.

Building a great portfolio is the first step in getting paying clients! It won’t happen overnight, but continuously practicing, posting your work, and sharing your passion with those around you is a great start. As your experience grows, so will your personal style and your confidence. People will begin to notice and support you along the way!

*Leave me a comment if you’d like to see more posts like this! 🙂

Love,

Ana B

The post How to Build A Professional Makeup Portfolio appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.