By now, I’m sure most of you have seen that TikTok video where a bride wipes off her bridal makeup. Let’s talk about it!
First off, what did you think about it? Be real—let me know in the comments.
Now, let’s get to the hard truth: this could happen to any of us as artists if we don’t set ourselves and our brides up for success. I’m not here to drag anyone, but we have to be honest with ourselves—our work isn’t just about making someone look pretty. It’s about communication, trust, and making sure your bride feels like the most important person in the world.
Here’s what I do in my business to avoid situations like this:
1. Online Consultations (Included in My Fee)
I charge at least $350 per bride, and I include an online consultation. Why? Because this is where I really get to know my brides, manage expectations, and figure out everything before the wedding day.
For example, during the consultation, I look at their hair and ask the real questions:
• Does she have enough hair for the style she wants?
• Will the extensions match?
• Does her vision even make sense for her hair type or face shape?
If it doesn’t, this is the time for me to tell her the truth and suggest alternatives that will actually work. It also shows my brides that I care about getting it right and sets the tone for a smooth process. Plus, it adds value because we’re building trust before I even touch her hair.
2. Show the Style and Listen (For Real)
After I finish the style, I always show my brides the final look and beg them to tell me if they want anything changed. And I mean anything.
Here’s the deal: you can’t just say this—you actually have to mean it. Don’t get defensive if they ask for a tweak. I know it’s hard because this is our art, but it’s their big day. How they feel matters more than how perfect we think the style is.
Listen to what they’re saying, even if it stings a little. Honor their requests and make the changes if it’ll make them happy. Trust me, their feelings about how they were treated will last way longer than their hair or makeup on that day.
3. Follow Up After the Appointment
Here’s the part most people skip: follow up.
My assistant Jen always checks in with our brides after the appointment to ask how it went. This is key because sometimes brides don’t want to say in the moment that something was off.
For example, I once did Hollywood waves for a bride and didn’t get her extensions’ color perfect. She told Jen about it when she followed up. Instead of ignoring it, I personally reached out, apologized, and offered her a free service for whenever she visits Vegas again. She appreciated how I handled it and stayed happy overall.
That follow-up saved me from a possible TikTok disaster because I took responsibility and showed her I still cared, even after I got paid.
Moral of the Story:
If you want to avoid being the next viral TikTok fail, don’t skip the hard stuff:
• Be honest and upfront.
• Build trust before the wedding day.
• Actually listen to your brides.
• Take care of them even after they’ve walked out the door.
It’s not just about how they look—it’s about how they feel. When you put your brides first, they’ll remember you as someone who truly cared, not just someone who styled their hair.
Now let’s chat! What are your thoughts on the video? And are you doing these things in your own bridal business? Let’s be real about it!