FAQS

What should a client look for when selecting a professional makeup + hair artist?

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An artist's education, level of experience and professionalism can vary tremendously and will reflect in their pricing structure, portfolio and business practices. If you are looking to hire a professional to style you for your wedding or high-definition photography needs, know that the application you need is not the same as traditional everyday makeup and hair. Protect the investment you have already made by hiring an amazing photographer and budget for a seasoned artist who is licensed, insured and specializes in their craft. It will ensure not only that you look and feel your absolute best, but that you are given the support you need along the planning process so that your big day flows seamlessly.

Photo: Viera Photographics

Photo: Elena Graham Photography

Photo: Kassidy Love

What is unique about Carrie Aldous' services?

 

As highly trained beauty artist, Carrie specializes in makeup + hair specifcally for HD photography. Licensed and insured, she and her team are referred by the most reputable resorts and vendors in the area to provide on-location services at the most elite venues and private estates throughout the Napa/Sonoma valleys. Carrie only commits to only one bride per day to ensure she is present throughout their event for necessary touch-ups and styling.

 

Anyone can apply makeup, however Carrie’s trained eye uses makeup as a medium to create symmetry to the face. By enhancing the beautiful and unique features of each client her goal is to make everyone feel like the best version of themselves. With compassion, she listens to the individual needs of each client so that together you are guaranteed to achieve the look you truly desire instead of a “one-size-fits-all” application. As your personal stylist, Carrie brings a level of expertise that comes with years of dedication and training. Mentored by the most driven, focused and successful leaders in the beauty industry, Carrie is committed to her passion. Known for her photo-friendly, long-lasting makeup applications, Carrie also provides airbrush makeup, hair styling, threading, brow shaping, faux lash applications and the convenience of having your artist on-location. If you have looked through her portfolio and can “see yourself” in the images of her previous clients then please contact her immediately to check availability.

Does Carrie offer airbrush services and how is it different from traditional makeup?

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Yes, Carrie is professionally trained and twice certified in airbrush makeup techniques. Airbrush is a gentle tool that is used to deliver a fine mist of makeup to the skin. It provides flawless, high-definition coverage that is light weight and extremely long lasting. There are a few different formulas of makeup that can be used with the airbrush machine however for her bridal clients, Carrie prefers working with silicone based makeup which is the only formula that is truly water-resistant. Don't be fooled by imitations, professional airbrush makeup lines such as Temptu Pro, Kett and Make-Up Designory are among the brands intended for pro-artist use and that is why Carrie offers these lines as her airbrush makeup of choice.

If a client doesn’t usually wear a lot of makeup, will they still feel comfortable?

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The majority of Carrie's clients don’t usually wear a full face of makeup every day, however application is really customized to what each client wants specifically therefore she can apply as little or as much makeup as is requested. Not overdone or understated, the end result will be a polished look that perfectly matches the style and theme of your event so that you are comfortable in your own skin.

What is “photo-friendly" or "camera-ready” makeup and is it really necessary for photos?

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Consumer friendly retail cosmetics are intended for everyday use and most are not compatible with flash photography (regardless of what the corporate cosmetic marketing campaigns advertise!) That means that although your powder or foundation might look great to the naked eye, the product ingredients can create a flash back against professional camera lighting making your skin appear pale or ashy. As an educated professional makeup artist with extensive ingredient knowledge, Carrie knows exactly which products work best for HD photography, TV and film and will chose from her beauty arsenal accordingly.

What kind of makeup + hair products does Carrie Aldous use?

Carrie takes pride in using only the highest quality, professional grade cosmetics and hair products suitable for HD photography, TV and film. In her experience, one cosmetic brand does not make the best of everything so she uses carefully selected products from La Mer, Charlotte Tilbury, Kevyn Aucoin, Make Up For Ever, Temptu Pro, Ben Nye, Stila, Bobbi Brown, RCMA, Cinema Secrets, NARS, Inglot, Make-Up Designory, Graftobian, Yves Saint Laurent, Il Maquiage, Le Maquillage Pro, Lise Watier, CHANEL, Glycelene and M•A•C Pro to name a few. Her hair kit is stocked with various items from prestigious lines such as Oribe, Davines, Kevin Murphy, Unite, R+Co and Aquage. She is always testing new products however only the best make it in to her professional kits. Carrie also uses disposable applicators, sanitized brushes, and follows meticulous cleanliness standards for her client’s safety.

Is a bridal preview consultation (trial) required?​

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It is highly recommend (however not required) that bridal clients schedule a preview consultation. It is the perfect way to meet your artist, preview your desired makeup + hair look, and ensure that both are a good fit for your special day. A preview also allows for a much faster, more relaxed application on the day-of, as Carrie will already have your desired look documented. Please note that booking a preview consultation alone does not reserve your wedding date.

How do I book an appointment?

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Please contact Carrie at your earliest convenience to check her availability. ​A 50% non-refundable retainer + a signed contract are required to reserve all services.

What does Carrie do when she isn't providing makeup + hair services?

 

​When Carrie isn't working on-location, chances are you will find her at her desk responding to client inquiries or drafting contracts. She also spends countless hours researching new products, taking workshops, working with industry vendors, restocking her kits and cleaning brushes. Sometimes she even eats and sleeps!