So what’s a booking fee? And why do I take one?
Once you’ve made contact and decided that you’d like to use me for your hair and make up on your wedding day ill send you across a personalised quote with details of how to pay your booking fee. Some people might call this a deposit payment or ‘down payment’ but essentially what you’re doing is making a payment to reserve and secure your date as stated upon your booking form.
Think about it like this – Would you find your dream venue, check that they have your date available and then send out all your invites just hoping that it will be ok for your and your guests to turn up on the day without making a payment to ensure that they will cater for you all ?! Why would they?! And yet that’s what some people do with their hair and make up artist. To me it would be crazy to take such a risk with something as important and how you will look on one of the biggest day of your life but some people don’t ensure that their booking is secure and can end up disappointed.
I always take a booking fee. Sometimes brides will ask why I do this or what it really means so I’ve outlined some of my reasons below:
- I’m a professional business. Bridal hair and make up is what I do. It’s my ‘real’ job – It’s not just a hobby or a bit of extra cash, its how I pay my bills and It’s important that I run things properly and professionally. I need to know where I’m working and when , how much is coming in and going out so I can plan properly and make sure I can deliver the excellent service you deserve on your big day.
- Your Peace of mind. You know you have made and secured a booking. You know that Ill be turning up and what time. You don’t need to worry that ill change my mind, or go and do something else rather than turn up for you! The amount of last minute messages I get from brides who have thought they had ‘booked’ an artist, only to receive a message the week before their wedding that they ‘cant do it now- sorry! ‘ is crazy. As much as I wish I could help them all – sadly I cant and there are some brides left scouring around for anyone and everyone who’s left . Professional, talented and popular stylists can get booked anywhere up to 3 years in advance so don’t hesitate if you’ve found the person that you want to join you on your wedding morning.
- I only book one wedding per day. Once I receive your booking fee then I know that I can turn away other brides for that date because its yours. I do this for a number of reasons. Its YOUR day. Its MY job to make you feel like the most important person and that cant happen if I’m watching the clock or wanting to leave to get somewhere else. On your wedding day, you are my number one priority, and being invited to join you on such a special day is a real honour. Ill be there right until the final moments, making sure every hair is in place and that your make up is perfect as you head off down the aisle.
Every stylists booking process may differ but I personally take 25% of your final balance as your booking fee. This is then deducted from your final balance which is due 4 weeks before the big day itself. It’s at this time also that we will confirm your schedule for the morning, discuss any details and make any arrangements or plans. You’ll find that most suppliers take payment around this time and it saves the hassle and confusion of trying to take organise money on the day. The wedding morning is an event in itself. It’s your opportunity to relax, enjoy and get excited for the events of the day as they start to unfold. It’s your time to have fun with your bridal party and enjoy your last few hours as a Miss, stress free !
If you’d like me to provide you with a personalised quote for your big day then click here to get in touch . Im already almost fully booked for Summer 2020 so don’t hold back if you’ve set your date and want to book!
Katie x