Frequently asked questions

How is it best to get in touch to redeem my gift voucher or send a new enquiry?

The most efficient way for a new enquiry or to discuss how to book your appointment is by e-mail to hello@birutethomasmua.co.uk or by filling in a form on the “Contact Me” page. We are always quick to respond to enquiries and questions. We will always ask for all of the important information we need. You are in exceptionally good hands from the moment you get in touch and we are always happy to offer efficient and friendly communications.

What are your gift voucher terms?

Gift vouchers are only available as e-vouchers sent via email. They are valid for 12 months from the date of issue and are not transferable. A full refund will only be made if cancelled within 14 days of purchase. After the date has been set for the makeup lesson or other services it can be changed once if we are informed with more than 48 hours notice.

Do you have special rates for mid-week or low-season weddings?

Yes, special discounts are valid for November, January and February bridal bookings only.

What do you charge to travel to my location?

We cover all of South East England but being based in Portsmouth, the areas of Hampshire, Sussex, Surrey, Dorset and Isle of White are within easy reach. Travel charges will apply outside of a 20 mile radius of Portsmouth and are charged at 75p per mile, based on a return journey.

Do you have minimum booking requirements?

Yes. For single bride bookings, a supplement of £50 will be added for Monday to Friday and Sunday weddings at peak times and £20 at off-peak times. For Saturday weddings at peak times a minimum booking of bride + 3 guests is required.

What information do you require from me when making a booking?

We will require your name, the date of your wedding or event, including the time that you need to be ready by. We will need the venue name, address, the service that you require and if you would like to book any guests of the bridal party in for their makeup. Please also provide any information that you feel is relevant, for example, your particular style preferences, any skin sensitivities or other allergies.

What is the best way for me to book?

Please send me an email hello@birutethomasmua.co.uk with the above details and any other requests and I will come back to you as soon as possible, or feel free to fill in the form on the “Contact Me” page.

Do you charge travel/accommodation/subsistence expenses for weddings abroad?

We do charge for the following:
Travel expenses to airports and/or airport parking;
Return flights for all team members booked;
Accommodation whilst at the destination of the wedding; and
Travel expenses whilst at the destination.
£50 will be charged for subsistence per Team member for every 24 hours spent away from home for a booking.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Once you have sent your enquiry and booking request, if I have availability on the chosen date and time I will send you an invoice for the deposit (which will be deducted from the final payment due on or before the day of the event), and once payment has been made your booking will be confirmed. Unfortunately, I cannot guarantee a reservation until the deposit has been received. If I am not available on your wedding day I will check if one of my team member’s is.

What is your cancellation policy?

For wedding bookings the deposit will be refunded if we are notified of the cancellation 12 weeks or more before the wedding date, the deposit will be retained if less than 12 weeks notice is given.

For all other bookings no charge will be incurred if we are notified of the cancellation 24 hours or more before the booking date, the full charge for the booking will be incurred if less than 24 hours notice is given.

Charges will be incurred for expenses due to cancellations where travel and/or accommodation have already been paid for by us and are non-refundable from the provider.

Cancellations can only be accepted via e-mail, verbal cancellations cannot be accepted.

Is the deposit refundable?

Deposits are non-refundable if a cancellation is received less than 12 weeks before the event.

Is a trial necessary?

A trial is recommended to ensure that your chosen makeup look suits you and that you are happy with it. The majority of brides will have these between 3 and 6 months before the wedding. You will have some photos taken during these trials to ensure the look is just right for you and we will make notes about any products used and your feedback on the trial look, so it can be repeated on your wedding day. It is definitely preferred because you won’t need to worry that your makeup might not suit you. It is also wise because, in the rare event that you have a reaction to a product, we will be able to try alternatives to be sure that the ones used on the day agree with your skin. Please allow approximately 2 hours for the makeup trial, because we may need to try various looks to be sure that you are pleased with the completed application.

Which products do you use?

We only use the highest quality products and which ones will completely depend on the client, the look they desire and if they have any sensitivities. They include Laura Mercier, Delilah, Kevyn Aucoin, Make Up For Ever, Charlotte Tilbury, Shiseido, Becca, Liz Earle, Hourglass and Studio 10.

Do you offer any discounts for a large bridal party?

Please contact me to provide specific details of your requirements and how many ladies are in the bridal party requiring makeup, as well as any other requirements.

Are you insured?

Yes, personal liability insurance is assured.

How long does bridal makeup take?

This will take around one hour and a quarter for the bride and around 40 to 50 minutes for members of the bridal party. Brides generally like to be ready in good time before they leave for the ceremony – usually, about an hour before – so they will have time to change into their dress, relax with a glass of champagne and do anything else they might have remembered while they were getting ready. This time allowance is definitely recommended so there is no panic!

When would an assistant be required for a booking?

An assistant to the main makeup artist/hairstylist may be required if:
The start time for a booking is amended to be later but the finish time is to remain the same; or
If we think that booking is not possible for one person due to time constraints.
The cost of an assistant is a flat fee of £90 per booking. You will be informed during the booking process if we believe that an assistant will be required.

Birute Thomas MUA

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