the all important FAQ post!
- Candice Deanna
- Jul 10, 2024
- 16 min read
Updated: Feb 12
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, with numerous decisions to make and details to consider.
Usually first 3 things a couple considers is:
B. How big of a wedding you want. Want low stress but maybe a few upset family member? Elope! Make it your own special day just for the two of you. You can always have a "reception" style function later at someone's back yard or at a restaurant ( NOT on your bill!). Micro wedding where only the nearest and dearest get an invite to? Or do you want the bigger affair with all the people in your lives to see you say your vows, walk the aisle and party until the sun comes up?
C. Where you want to get married? The venue. If you want something not owned by friends or family and particularily if you want a larger wedding. This is 90% the first official booking a couple makes.
After that is usually PHOTOGRAPHER. That's where I come in! However, I have some wedding industry insights for you based off my many years doing what I do and particularly here on the island, and I want to share that with you before we get to the FAQ's!
The Tea...
Now as I do Makeup, Hair AND Photography I have a unique insight to different areas of the wedding industry as well as the planning process. It used to be that Photographers are booked first up to over a year in advance and makeup & hair services 6 months and under. In some locations that's still the norm. BUT as we live on the BEAUTIFUL Vancouver Island, which is a mini destination hot spot for people from not only Vancouver, but across Canada (as lots of people move here from other provinces) but from the states as well (their dollar stretches more here! Plus proximity to the border is key).
Over covid there was a HUGE increase in photographers on the island and so there are many amazing options there. Some better than others for wedding specific services. Others are more boudoir driven or love maternity and families. So you still need to do your research and find one who not only photos you love but also their general energy as you will be spending the WHOLE wedding day with that person (and potentially second shooter).
Covid had the opposite effect on the makeup and hair industry as we were unable to take clients due to proximity to people and the need to do services on the face which required taking off a mask, a lot of artists found other lines of work.
This means if you want a good artist, especially on a popular long weekend or Saturday date, if you want an artist that does MAKEUP & HAIR those are even more rare to book, if you already have a makeup artist booked, a mobile hairstylist is a unicorn. You need to be looking for a makeup & hair artist AT THE SAME TIME as your photographer. Maybe even before.
BASIC INFO:
Deposits & Payment
A non-refundable retainer is required to secure any booking , typically 50% of the total.
Payment options:
Cash (in person)
E-transfer
Square invoice (5% processing fee waived for retainer. Applies to debit/credit cards additional payments )
Payment Plans: Yes, I offer payment plans! If budget is holding you back, please ask! I’m always happy to find a solution.
Social Media Love: When sharing your photos, please tag all vendors involved. We’re small businesses and those tags truly make a difference 💛
Reviews: Loved your experience? I’d be so grateful for a review on Google or Vancouver Island Wedding Reviews (Facebook) it helps my business more than you know!
Feedback First, Please: If something missed the mark, I kindly ask that you reach out directly before leaving a public review. Open communication is one of my core values, and it allows me to learn, fix, and improve. I leave EGO at the door so I hope all my clients feel safe to mention things in the moment, but not everyone feels comfortable doing that face to face so shoot me a message later.
Rescheduling & Timing: Life happens! Please communicate any changes or delays. Running late? Please let me know ASAP so I can do my best to accommodate you. Clear outlines for your particular booking will be outlines before you book either via email or in your contract.
Phones During Appointments: Please keep phones on silent and avoid scrolling or calls during services. It’s hard to do magic when you’re mid-TikTok or having a chat on the phone. Want music? I’m happy to connect your playlist to the speaker!
Specific info for Makeup & Hair Bookings
Rescheduling Policy
Less than 72 hours’ notice = loss of retainer
Rebooking after a late cancel requires a 100% retainer
Second offence (late cancel/no-show) = loss of full deposit
Prep Is Key
Arrive with a clean face (skincare is fine)
Exfoliate the night before + moisturize for best results
Hair should be freshly washed and fully dry (Blowouts: arrive with clean, damp hair in a wrap or towel, not dripping)
Add-Ons Matter: Please book the correct add-ons in advance (airbrush, updos, etc.). Time is scheduled intentionally and I can’t always squeeze extras in last-minute.
Inspo Photos: Bring them! Just remember they’re inspiration and now a-days mostly AI ( I'm looking at you PINTEREST), not guarantees. I’ll always guide you toward what flatters your features best.
Real Skin Reminder: Makeup is not a TikTok filter. Texture, pores, and fine lines are normal. I’ll prep your skin and tailor products to you. You’ll leave glowing, I promise.
Photos & Video BTS: I take before/after photos and short videos for reference and marketing. If you prefer not to be posted, just tell me! No pressure ever.
Hair Reality Check: Hair varies wildly by texture, density, and hold. Look for inspo on hair similar to yours. If your hair struggles to hold style, I highly recommend a pre-style blowout. Weather (humidity, wind, rain) also affects longevity.
Sensitive Skin: I use mostly low-fragrance, pro-grade products tested over 15+ years. You’re welcome to provide your own products as reference to what you use, but:
I can’t use personal makeup from clients.
No discounts apply, if you choose to apply certain products of your own yourself, and no guarantee on how my products last on top or under.
Personal products must be brand new if you want me to use products supplied by yourself
Lash Extensions: Great for everyday, tricky for makeup. They catch product and are hard to clean after .Good news: I carry a huge lash collection for every vibe, from natural to full glam. If you have extensions and aren't planning on taking a break for your makeup application please apologize to your lash tech for me!
Touch-Up Kits: Wedding packages include touch up kits! Yah. Mini's for the wedding party and deluxe for the bride. Non-wedding services don’t include touch-up kits by default. Optional add-ons:
Mini kit: $15
Deluxe kit: $25
Specific info for Photography Bookings
Wardrobe Prep: Outfits should be clean, wrinkle-free, and ready. I have a steamer available with advance notice (must be done before makeup/hair). I don’t retouch wrinkles, stains, or outfit regrets.
Weather & Locations: I shoot in all conditions, rain and wind included (hello, West Coast!). If you’d prefer to reschedule due to weather, a $100 rescheduling fee applies. Studio rentals are always an option ($100+ per hour extra, depending on location and duration).
Hair & Makeup Add-On: Highly recommended for confidence and camera-ready results. The Pearl Package is a discounted favourite for a reason.
Galleries & Image Selection:
For weddings: You’ll receive a curated gallery of the best images from your day, minimum images per package are listed with packages but we don't include a maximum. A little wedding gift from me to you.
For non-wedding sessions: These have a set number of images included. You can opt for either choosing you selection of images or have me choose them for you if that feels overwhelming. Additional images are always available for purchase.
RAW Images: I do not deliver RAW files. Editing is part of my artistry and brand. If you’re unsure about my current editing style, just ask!
Retouching: Light edits are included (colour, exposure, minor blemishes).Advanced Photoshop or body retouching is extra, charged per image or outsourced at cost.
Payments & Refunds: Final payment is due before the shoot begins. Retainers are non-refundable.I f you’re unhappy with your gallery, let’s chat! Communication is key.
Fun Extras: Polaroid and 35mm film add-on's available now!
Specific info for NEW Candid Camcorder Rental
What is the videography rental? This is a DIY, home-video–style wedding or session add-on. You’ll receive an easy-to-use handheld video camera to capture candid, nostalgic moments throughout your day — think real laughs, messy happy tears, and behind-the-scenes magic.
This is not full cinematic videography.
What’s included?
Camera rental for the agreed time period
Basic usage instructions + filming tips
Charging cables & accessories
Post-event return instructions
USB with edited video
Who films the footage? You do! (or your partner, friends, wedding party, or a designated “chaos coordinator”) This add-on is intentionally low-pressure and unstructured so moments feel natural and fun.
Is this easy to use? Yes. If you can use a smartphone, you can use this camera.
No technical knowledge required, just flip the viewing screen to turn on and press record! However, we do have a little "how-to" easy to follow instruction page to have along side.
Is editing included? Editing is basic. This isn't a cinematic masterpiece but rather a less formal vibe similar to old school family videos.
How do we return the footage?
All footage stays on the sd card inside the cameras and must be returned exactly as instructed
Memory cards must not be formatted or altered
Late or incomplete returns may result in additional fees
What happens if the camera is damaged or lost? By renting the camera, you accept responsibility for the equipment during the rental period and we require a credit card on file or a damage deposit (which will be refunded after return and inspection). General wear and tear happens but:
Damage, loss, or theft will be charged at replacement cost
Please treat the gear like it’s your best friend’s favourite camera
I strongly recommend assigning one or two responsible person to keep track of them.
Can this replace a professional videographer? No and it’s not meant to. This rental is for emotion, memories, and fun, not polished cinematic storytelling. Many clients love pairing this with photography for a more complete, heartfelt record of the day.
Can we use our own music? Yes — but music added during editing must be royalty-free.
Do we get all the footage? Yes, to an extent. We cull through and cut down un-necessary extra footage so that the video flows and no awkward shots that don't make sense including.
Can this be used for non-wedding sessions? Absolutely! Perfect for:
Branding sessions
Couples & lifestyle shoots
Elopements, pre-wedding celebration parties, honey-moon, entire wedding weekend.
Travel sessions
Creative projects
Refunds & Cancellations: Videography rentals follow the same retainer and cancellation policies as other services. Once the equipment is reserved, the retainer is non-refundable.
MOST COMMON Q'S
1. How Far in Advance Should I Book Your Services?
12-18 months before your wedding date is a good time to start searching. Bonus is that usually vendors adjust their rates with the increase of affordability so by being keen on the booking front you can secure a cheaper rate!
I am taking Triple Threat bookings already this next wedding season and the next summer as well. This is my main passion for my work and I am not taking on smaller makeup or makeup & hair bookings as frequently for these upcoming years as the Triples take priority!
So if you are planning on getting married this summer or next. Inquire now!
Looking to book for non-wedding services or a weekday? I am still available for elopements and micro weddings, as well as a lot of weekdays available for Pearl Package Packages so even if your last minute scrambling it never hurts to check availability.
If you're having a later in the day wedding and I'm in the area for another makeup only booking we sometimes can fit you in just as a solo bride. So any elopement brides consider this when planning your day as most artists won't take on a solo booking over the weekend.
2. Can I See Samples of Your Work?
OF COURSE! I have a select amount of photos on my website here of my makeup, hair and photography and links to Instagram (currently locked out of my makeup account, so no DM"S on there please! But great to scope out my previous client work!).I also have Facebook Pages separately for Makeup & Hair and then for Photography!
3. Do You Offer Trial Sessions?
I'll answer these separately!
Wedding Photographer: Trial photo sessions are not common, but you can schedule engagement or pre-wedding shoots to get comfortable with hanging out with me as your photographer and getting over your awkwardness in front of the lens!
If you book a Triple Threat Package you either get one included or one for a discounted rate! I highly recommend making use of that discount if not for a couples shoot but even for a saucy wedding day gift of a boudoir set of photos or flat lay book! Paired with the lingerie you wore it'll be a surprise package for sure!!
Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist: I do, however it is always a paid service either booked separately prior to booking me for your wedding. However, booking a trial before securing me for the date doesn't mean I hold it for you. I ONLY consider a booking secured if I receive a deposit AND a signed contract. All my Triple Threat packages (except Twine) comes with a trial included. If your package comes with a pre-wedding shoot so that is also when I usually schedule the trial so that you can see how it translates in photos!
Most makeup artists typically offer trial sessions to test different looks and ensure you are satisfied with the final result. Usually, the trial is 3 hours long and that gives us time to do a consult, test out the hair look (will be at about 70% finished as I usually test out the hair style without de-frizzing, making sure an updo is extra secured or use hard finishing spray. Makeup wise it will be almost exactly what you ask for, including minor tweaks to the look and any notes on how it wears through out the day post trial!
I don't recommend doing a trial too far in advance as trends and your style change for the day, but if you do a trial and want to test out a different look I do offer additional trials at a discount!
4. How Long Will the Services Take on the Wedding Day?
Wedding Photographer: Depends on the package and if you add on additional time! The duration of photography services can vary based on your schedule and requirements. Discuss the timeline with me as your photographer beforehand. I also send an in depth photography questionnaire that will allow me to assist you in mocking up a schedule.
Makeup Artist: Makeup application for the bride can take 1 hour for makeup and 1 hour for hair, plus an additonal 15-30 minutes for touch up for her as well as any others who got services done earlier in the morning and may need them Additional other services are 45 mins/ service per person. I also add 30 minutes to set up and take down if only on a booking for makeup & hair and if I am doing a Triple Threat package and can leave my kit to pack up after the photography is done then I don't add that to the schedule. Ensure that you allocate sufficient time in your wedding day schedule.
5. What Happens If You Fall Ill on the Wedding Day?
In the freelance world we don't get sick days and I've always shown up regardless. But I will notify you on what your preferences are.
Wedding Photographer: Reputable photographers often have a network of professionals who can cover in case of emergencies to ensure your day is captured flawlessly. As I started on the island as a makeup artist, I know sooooo many amazing ones! However, worst case scenario my second shooter is fully capable to take over as Lead and I will mask up to protect you and your guests and be second shooter. If I can get out of bed I'm there.
Makeup Artist: Makeup artists usually have contingency plans in place and may have a fellow artist available as a backup. I have people on my team who's priority isn't weddings ALL summer so I usually ask them first if their available as I know their styles and who would work best. After that I search outside of my team. But, knock on wood, I have never been too ill to do the work. I may work a little slower and not be super chatty, but I get the job done!
6. Are Touch-Up Services Included?
Wedding Photographer: In regards to editing I do minor touch ups to photos but I am not a photoshop expert so if touch-up services for photos are required then I will outsource those for an additional fee.
Makeup Artist: Most makeup artists offer touch-up services for a specified duration after the initial application to keep you looking flawless throughout the event. I am one of those artists and allot anywhere from 15-30 minutes prior to packing up. However, this is also my buffer time. SO if bridesmaids are late or unprepared to start their services (looking up inspo, rather than having it all ready to go. Needing to go to the bathroom mid service. Coming with makeup on from the night before or wet hair) this eats into that time and it is NOT a guarantee.
With my Lace Package I include all day touch ups for the BRIDE only. IF you want to add on for the whole bridal party or a look change for the reception then that is something we can plan and add to the quote!
7. Can I Make Specific Requests for Photos or Makeup Looks?
Wedding Photographer: Photographers are open to accommodating your requests for specific shots or styles, as long as they align with their expertise. Just know that photos are dependent on location and light so if it's not a photo scene we can recreate then we will try and make the most of what we have to work with! Bare in mind that "re-creating" a pose or a photo will take more time that just using prompts and more candid interactions!
See inspo from the Beibs & Hayley and my couple. Not an exact copy, we made it their own and was perfect!
Makeup Artist: Communicate your preferences clearly with the makeup artist during the trial session to ensure your desired look is achieved on the wedding day. We are all pretty visual people so have inspo photos of your look, photos of makeup or hair that has been done on you or that you have done on yourself that you liked as well as know what you know you don't like (for example: you never wear blush only bronzer. SO If I use a blush to help sculpt your look it would be a very natural tone).
8. What Should I Do to Prepare for the Services?
Wedding Photographer: Ensure you provide your photographer with a detailed schedule, list of key moments, and any specific requests well in advance. For wedding bookings have all the day of dresses steamed the night before. Have all the detail available in a spot for them to have access to ( rings, jewelry, veil, shoes, perfume, bouquet, belt, cologne, cufflinks, stationary).
As with most weddings I do, I rock up the night before in my camper van so we are close by for the early morning start as well as give us time to run through locations of first look, ceremony, reception and where you want couples and wedding party photos
Makeup Artist: To prepare for your makeup session, arrive with a clean face, moisturized skin, and any reference images or ideas you have in mind. Let us know of any severe allergies to ingredients or particular brands you know. Drink water and exfoliate the night before as well as do a hydrating face mask. Drink plenty of water in the week prior.
We need SPACE for all the makeup and hair products. I bring a high chair but we need a low back low chair for hair. Near natural light/windows is great if possible. DO NOT set us up in a cramped room full of stuff or in a bathroom. Ideally not up any stairs is a bonus as it takes a lot to haul everything up and down them. As you can see from the photos below it's a LARGE kit
9. How do you manage photos AND makeup & hair services in the Triple Threat packages? Especially for weddings?
The most asked question. I am lucky to have Simon second shoot for me so he takes photos of the groomsmen and any additional location photos prior to guests arriving such as ceremony location and reception decor! If we are tight on time, he also comes and snaps photos of the girls getting ready and the brides details. Once makeup and hair is done we have time scheduled for the bridal party in jammies, putting the dress on, first looks with the bridal party and sometime the bridal party portraits (but those can wait until wedding party photo time!)
Plus my ADHD thrives on high pressure situations so no worries on my end!
10. What should I expect from you in regards to communication style?
A. E-mail Communicaiton: My preference is email as we can then keep a thread of all communications in one spot for referring back to.
I don't do admin every day. Usually once or twice a week during the summer and in the fall I have my admin gal Ashlie who keeps tabs on things more frequently up until the end of spring. So if you are someone who gets nervous with lack of communication DO NOT WORRY! I check my emails daily for anything urgent but I only respond a few times a week when I set aside a proper amount of time for admin.
I will always send an inquiry form to get a good idea of what date your looking for, location, services and time frame, if that's how you've connect via the website or a facebook group then you're already done STEP ONE!
If you are inquiring about Triple Threat packages I will also send a photography questionnaire, which goes into more depth so I can better quote you the appropriate package and add-ons if needed!
The inquiry form via WIX through my website.
You will receive the questionnaire, contract, quotes and photography gallery through Pixiset via email.
B. Video Call: Wedding inquiries including: Triple Threat or makeup & hair packages, I do a complimentary video chat (if you want one) to see if I'm a good fit for your wedding and if you'd be a good client for me! We chat details about what you're inquiring about, what packages work best, investment and add-on's available so we can move onto second step of securing your date with a contract and retainer.
C. In Person: Once we set a trial date (and pre-wedding shoot) this will be our first interaction in person and we will touch base on all details as well as anything that may have been clarified since filling out the questionnaire. For any Triples we tend to park up the day before your wedding to scope out the ceremony space during rehearsal and pre-set up the makeup and hair prep area
D. Text/Whatsapp: Prior to the trial you will be given my cell number (in case of emergency) but I do request that any additional communication go through email up until the few days before the wedding.
PLEASE NOTE: I DO NOT communicate via dm's (facebook or instagram) as I share the admin work with Ashlie it's easier to keep communication via email so we are all on the same page.
Final Thoughts....
Navigating the realms of wedding photography and makeup artistry can be a delightful experience when armed with the right information. By addressing these common questions and seeking clarification on anything you may need to know, you can make informed decisions that align with your vision for the perfect wedding day. I know some people think or have already had experiences with "wedding vendors" and may not think they can openly discuss things, but I am a no-drama girlie. So I would rather take a call and chat through something then to have weird energy on the day of because of a misunderstanding or miscommunication on either end as most of my client communication is via email and that rarely conveys proper tone!
Remember, open communication, early bookings, and trial sessions are key to ensuring a seamless collaboration with your chosen wedding makeup artist, hair stylist and photographer... who hopefully is going to be ME!
Cheers to capturing timeless memories
all the fun and emotions and looking your most polished, flawless, radiant self on your special day!
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