Determining your initial rates as a new makeup artist requires balancing the need to attract clients with valuing your investment in skills and a professional kit. Setting prices too low can undervalue your work and the industry, while setting them too high might deter potential customers. This guide offers a clear path to establishing rates that are both fair and competitive.
Key Factors That Influence Your Rates
A primary determinant of your pricing is your geographic location. Rates in major metropolitan areas like New York or Los Angeles are higher due to an increased cost of living and greater market demand. In contrast, an artist in a smaller town will need to set more modest prices to align with local economic conditions. Researching what other artists in your area charge provides a benchmark for positioning yourself competitively.
The quality of your portfolio and the products in your kit also impact your earning potential. A well-curated, professionally photographed portfolio that showcases your skills can justify higher rates. Using high-end or luxury brand products carries a higher cost per application, which should be reflected in your pricing, as clients may be willing to pay more for the performance of premium products.
The type of service requested is another consideration, as different events have varying expectations and time commitments that influence the final cost. Bridal makeup is the most expensive service because it involves a trial session, intricate application techniques, and the high-stakes nature of a wedding. A simpler look for a party or prom will be priced lower than a comprehensive bridal package.
Calculating Your Minimum Price Per Service
To ensure profitability, you must first calculate the baseline cost for every makeup application. This calculation begins with accounting for the cost of the products you use. For each item in your kit, estimate a cost-per-use by dividing the total price of the product by the number of applications you expect to get from it. This reveals your direct material expenses for each client.
Next, you must factor in the cost of all disposable items used during an appointment. This includes single-use tools like mascara wands, sponges, and cotton pads. These items are necessary for a hygienic application, and their cost accumulates over time. Summing the price of each disposable used per service gives you a figure to add to your base cost.
Finally, incorporate a portion of your business overhead into your per-service minimum. These are recurring expenses like professional insurance, website hosting fees, or booking software subscriptions. To allocate this, divide your total monthly overhead by the number of clients you expect to serve in that month. Adding this to your product and disposable costs reveals your break-even point; your final price must be set above this to generate a profit.
Choosing A Pricing Structure
Once you understand your costs, you need to decide how to present your prices. The most common method for beginners is a flat-rate or per-service structure. This involves setting a fixed price for a specific look, such as “Evening Glam.” This approach is straightforward for clients and ideal for individual bookings where service requirements are clearly defined.
An hourly rate is another option, better suited for commercial projects like photoshoots or film work where the time commitment is unpredictable. This structure ensures you are compensated for all time on set, including touch-ups and standby time. While less common for private clients, it is a standard practice in the commercial industry.
Creating packages is an effective strategy for events with multiple people, like a wedding. You can offer a bundled price for the bride and her bridal party, which represents a slight discount per person compared to booking individually. This incentivizes larger bookings and simplifies the billing process. Packages can also bundle services, such as including a trial run with the wedding day makeup at a combined price.
Example Rates for Beginner Makeup Artists
For a standard event makeup application, such as for a prom, party, or family photos, a beginner can charge between $50 and $100. The exact price within this range depends on the factors previously discussed, like your location and kit quality. This service involves a full face of makeup designed to last for the duration of the event.
Bridal makeup is priced at a premium due to its intensity and high level of responsibility. A beginner’s rate for the bride falls between $100 and $250. This higher price is justified because it includes a mandatory trial session and a longer, more detailed wedding day service. Makeup for bridesmaids is priced lower, in the $50 to $100 range per person.
You can also increase your revenue by offering add-on services for an additional fee. False eyelash application is a common add-on, which could be priced at $10 to $25. Another premium service is airbrush foundation, known for its flawless finish and longevity, which could add $20 to $50 to the total cost. It is also standard to charge a travel fee for locations outside a specified service radius, either as a flat fee or a per-mile rate.
Communicating Your Prices With Confidence
How you present your prices is as important as the prices themselves. Create a simple, professional price list that clearly outlines your services and their corresponding costs. This can be a polished PDF document that you email to inquiring clients or a dedicated page on your website.
Using a contract for every booking is a fundamental business practice. The contract should detail all agreed-upon terms, including the specific services, location, date, time, and the total cost. It should also state your payment terms, such as the required non-refundable deposit and the final payment due date. This document protects both you and your client by setting clear expectations.
When discussing your rates, state them confidently and without apology. Your prices are a reflection of your investment in products, education, and your time. As you gain experience, build your portfolio, and see an increase in demand, you should plan to re-evaluate your pricing. Periodically increasing your rates is a necessary part of growing your business.