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Regular Contributor
Posts: 236
Registered: ‎02-01-2011
I would love to find a makeup counter with a real artist that is not just trying to sell you. Anyone have a favorite? I could use some help!! Thanks
Respected Contributor
Posts: 3,602
Registered: ‎04-11-2010
I've only had mine done at MAC (a million years ago) and a Bobbi Brown. Loved the BB and they didn't pressure me to sell, although I did buy a few things (it was for my wedding). I think it depends on the MUA, too. The guy at BB did a beautiful job, and took everything into consideration. HTH! Btw, I would ask friends or coworkers. Or, if you see someone whose MU you really like at a dept store counter, ask them. I'm sure they'd love the compliment!!
Honored Contributor
Posts: 24,685
Registered: ‎07-21-2011

I would check out Laura Mercier and Bobbi Brown. If you have fair or light skin, L. Mercier would be a better choice because she offers pink undertones, neutrals & yellow undertones.

kindness is strength
Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,354
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

L. Mercier and BB are expensive lines, if you don't mind spending $$-they are also very high quality. If you are just starting out, Clinique is another option for dept. store makeover skincare and cosmetics.

Super Contributor
Posts: 634
Registered: ‎12-03-2011

I don't think the counter will matter. I would say find a makeup studio and pay for their talent and objective advice.

The other choice is Sephora since they represent a number of brands and if they make a recommendation hopefully it is in your best interest and not a brand they are tied to because they work that counter.

Beauty blogger and YTer who loves it all! Cheers, Lulu Bea aka Lulu On Beauty - Let's be FACEBOOK beauty friends!
Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,744
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

On 2/15/2014 jobiz said: I would love to find a makeup counter with a real artist that is not just trying to sell you. Anyone have a favorite? I could use some help!! Thanks

Isn't that the point? They're using their products and time on you, after all. Where I live, it's standard to purchase at least two products after a full makeover. That "rule" is usually told to you when you're making the appointment.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 15,057
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

jobiz,

Some salons offer the services of a make up artist. Find a salon in your area online, or by word of mouth who employs a make up artist. They are not easy to find, but they are out there. Some are free lance and travel to a several salons when they are booked for services.

A good make up artist has a steady client base, and will service weddings, spas, they will do films, assist photographers. So look in those areas.

I don't think some of the make up counters are the place to get an everyday look, specific to you. The make up counters do have talented artists, trained by the company they represent. But most are confined to the company the represent. They are not always educated in total artistry. A true, talented make up artist knows how to balance flaws, knows your bone structure, and can give you several specific looks for many occasions, with many different products. Some salon artists just use the cheaper make up they get from the wholesale store, to give you an idea on color.and how to apply. Some make up artists are double or triple threats, being licensed cosmotologists, aestheticians as well as a degree in facial make-up artistry. They can do it all!

If you are in the Los Angeles area they are easy to find by word of mouth. You could go online and look up make up artist, or call a well known photographer, salon or spa'

When my granddaughter gets head shots for her agent once a year, the photographer has a make up specialist, and a hair specialist there if you book them. The photographers are glad to refer them!

Good luck. Sounds like so much fun. I did it once, for a reunion. The artist did a wonderful job, but they make up didn't agree with me. But I still used his method and his the design he used on me.

“sometimes you have to bite your upper lip and put sunglasses on”….Bob Dylan
Honored Contributor
Posts: 10,168
Registered: ‎03-14-2010

Merle Norman studios are offering free "express makeovers" right now....I have a friend with six daughters.....she has taken every one of them there on their 16th birthday for complete makeup, etc. They do consultations, etc. They don't use high-pressure sales tactics either; you may want to check them out if you have one in your area.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 13,954
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

I think BB is best for an everyday look...she trains her staff well too.

I would like to go to an Edward Bess makeover myself!

Honored Contributor
Posts: 18,415
Registered: ‎11-25-2011

Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas have makeup lessons. Try Googling "makeup application" in your area & see what pops up. For example, here in Dallas, Groupon had a couple deals for makeup lessons in small studios. You're in luck..this time of year lends itself more options....for the Spring bride. Some makeup lessons might be connected with photography studios where you bring your own makeup. Just Google & search!!