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.

1.What inspired you to become a makeup artist, and how did you get started in the industry?

Like many other artists, I was always the chosen one – the friend that was really good at doing makeup and hair. I was the little girl playing in all of her mom’s clothes and shoes and dressing and styling her Barbies. After I graduated highschool I enrolled at Graham Webb International for Cosmetology, and then Heritage Institute for Cosmetology, where I graduated in 2008. By 2010, I decided that I wanted to focus more on my makeup skills, so I attended a three-day makeup symposium hosted by Bennett Career Institute and I learned from some of the top artists in the industry: Danessa Myricks, Kevin James Bennett, and Fred Sanders, to name a few.

2.What are your tips for tailoring the look for each bride and bridal party?

My tips for tailoring looks are:
1.Understanding that everyone’s makeup preferences are different.
2.Learning to not be easily offended if I don’t nail a look the first time.
3.Staying up-to-date with trends and mastering difficult techniques.

3.What are some of your go-to products or tools that you can’t live without in your kit?

I cannot live without good quality brushes and make up products, especially soft brushes that don’t shed easily. I believe that soft brushes play a huge role in a client’s experience. I also clean them nightly because clean brushes perform best!

4. What are some of your keys for a successful trial and wedding day?

My keys for a successful trial would be prep and ask questions! Sometimes I reach out to the client prior to a trial with me to break the ice so they feel comfortable with me. Then during the trial, I make sure to ask very detailed questions to learn the Brides makeup vision, preferences and style. I will also ask details about the wedding, such as the color palette, the dress, the accessories, to get the overall vibe of the wedding and brides style. I use all of this to gauge the clients expectations and set myself up for success.

5. What advice would you give to aspiring makeup artists looking to make their mark in the beauty/bridal world?

Build a strong portfolio and develop a signature style. Always practice and continue educating yourself to be on top of the latest trends. Network to create new job opportunities. Develop customer service skills and seek feedback – don’t be afraid to receive critiques. Be the expert and exude confidence, even when you don’t have it!

Book Ebonie for all your glam needs!

The post Meet The Artist of the Quarter: Ebonie appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Shop the list:
one | two | three | four | five

-The (1)Relavel Rolling Super Large Professional Makeup Backpack has been my favorite kit for years because of how easy it is to store everything. Added bonus – it’s currently on sale!
-Having clear cases for storing products is so key, which is why I love this (4)Set of 3 Clear TSA Approved Travel Makeup Bags and this super sturdy (2)White & Clear Cosmetic Organizer. Bonus of being travel friendly for destination weddings!
-Easy access to my brushes is super important to me so this (5)Travel Standup Brush Case works double duty in keeping my brushes organized while also keeping them easy to access on the job!
-My it wouldn’t be complete without my favorite (3)Quick Drying Brush Cleaner! It’s so important for keeping my brushes and makeup clean between clients.

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The post Pro Series: Ana’s Kit Organization Must Haves appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

The not so fun part however is planning and packing my kit, but it’s absolutely vital for a successful work trip. To make the process easier, I start reviewing my kit at least a week in advance just in case I need to make any purchases. On the actual day I pack my kit, I set aside several hours to light a candle, play some good music, and clear out my dining table to clean and re-organize my kit. This usually happens a day or two before I leave so that my kit is freshly clean and organized.

Condensing Your Makeup Kit

For destination weddings and clients, I prefer to condense my kit as much as possible to make the kit less heavy and difficult to travel with. I use my rolling relavel makeup kit for travel and typically keep my makeup kit on me at all times since it meets the carry on size. I make sure to have the products needed for my client and I pay special attention to either removing large liquids or transferring them to more compact and travel friendly bottles. I also pack liquids and powders into ziplocks or toiletry pouches like these in case there is any spillage when traveling. I like to separate my powders and make sure they are tightly packed so they don’t move around during travel. I have had the unfortunate experience of exploding products while traveling and it’s best to double contain for an extra safety measure. If you plan to check your makeup bag, you might want to pack a smaller kit with travel size products for a full face to keep with you at all times to be prepared for a worst case scenario, like lost luggage

“I keep my makeup kit on me at all times since it meets the carry on size!”

Ana B Pro Tip

Checking Your Hair Bags

Since my hair kit requires me to bring large bottles of hairspray, I like to pack my hair kit in a luggage and check my hair bag. All my hair products are kept in zuca pouches to contain any spills. Any containers that could easily open during travel are either placed in a large ziploc bag or transferred to a more travel friendly container. For an added safety measure, I buy smaller travel sizes of my hair products to keep with me at all times in case my luggage gets lost. Thankfully this has never happened, but I like to be prepared for worst case scenarios.

Preparing for European travel

Europe has its own type of plugs so be sure to pack an adaptor. I have several of these adaptors for my hot tools. I like to buy doubles of anything that I really need so I can pack one in my carry on and check the other. Also note that American blow dryers tend to burn out even with adaptors as they are too powerful. I recommend either using the one provided at your venue or buying a Dual Voltage brush or blow dryer. The curling and straightening irons should work fine with an adaptor and a lower heat setting.

There’s definitely a bit of extra planning and preparation involved for destination weddings and clients, but to me it’s been worth the hassle for a unique experience I’ll never forget! Let me know if this is helpful or if you have any other related questions or comments. 

XO,
Ana B 

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The post How to Pack Your Kit For Destination Weddings 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.

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

Shop the products:
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1.MAC Fix+ Magic Radiance isn’t your ordinary moisturizer; it’s a multifaceted skincare essential for makeup artists. This hydrating mist not only primes and refreshes the skin but also imparts a luminous radiance, ensuring that your clients’ complexions are prepped to perfection for makeup application.
2.+CV SkinLabs Calming Moisturizer is a makeup artist’s secret for soothing and hydrating even the most sensitive skin. Its clean, non-irritating formula creates the perfect canvas for a flawless look.
3.Embryolisse Hydra-Cream Light is a makeup artist’s go-to for lightweight yet intense hydration. Its fast-absorbing formula provides the ideal moisture balance, ensuring a smooth and long-lasting makeup application.
4.Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream is a must-have for makeup artists due to its transformative properties. This iconic moisturizer not only deeply hydrates but also primes the skin, creating a flawless canvas for makeup application, leaving clients looking radiant and refreshed.
5.Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face Base Primer Moisturizer, Ana B.’s go-to moisturizer, is an indispensable addition to your makeup kit. It not only nourishes the skin with vitamins and shea butter but also acts as a perfect canvas for makeup, ensuring a smooth, hydrated, and long-lasting finish for your clients.

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The post Pro Series: Best Moisturizers For Your Kit appeared first on Makeup by Ana B.

Shop the products:
one | two | three | four
five | six

1.Milk Hydro Grip Hydrating Makeup Primer’s unique formula not only provides the perfect canvas for makeup application but also ensures it stays put all day. With its hydrating and gripping properties, this primer is your secret to achieving a flawless, long-lasting look that’s ready for the spotlight.
2.Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer should be a staple in your makeup kit. It’s a master at blurring imperfections and creating a velvety-smooth canvas, ensuring your clients’ makeup looks flawless and stays put all day.
3.Include Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer+ in your kit for a perfect balance of hydration and primer benefits. This versatile product ensures your clients’ skin is prepped and ready for long-lasting, flawless makeup looks.
4.MAC Fix+ Magic Radiance is a must-have addition to your makeup kit as it not only sets makeup but also imparts a radiant, dewy finish. It enhances the overall look of your makeup and keeps it fresh throughout the day, making it a versatile tool for any makeup artist.
5.Ana B. staple, Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face Base Primer Moisturizer is a crucial product to create a flawless makeup base that lasts. Its dual function provides essential hydration and creates a smooth canvas for makeup application, ensuring your clients’ skin looks radiant and makeup lasts throughout the day.
6.Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder offers a silky, blurring effect that minimizes imperfections and creates a flawless complexion. With its versatile application, it’s an essential tool for achieving a professional finish.

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: 6 Primers For Your Kit 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.

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