When it comes to wedding glam, there’s nothing quite like that first sit-down with your makeup artist. It’s the moment where Instagram saves and Pinterest boards meet foundation swatches, and ultimately, vision turns into reality. But in recent years, that appointment has come with a shift in language. Where many brides once scheduled a trial, more and more makeup artists are now offering a preview—but you might wonder why. Well, first, let’s discuss what a bridal makeup trial is in the first place.
What Is a Bridal Makeup Trial?
A makeup trial is traditionally a pre-wedding session where the bride and the makeup artist test out potential wedding day looks but also see if they’re a good fit personally. This trial allows the bride to see how different styles, products, and techniques will come together. For many brides, it’s the try-before-you-buy moment that helps them decide whether or not this artist is the right fit.
Trials are helpful, especially for brides who are still weighing options. But as Jhazmyn Thomas of All Jhaz’d Up Makeup Artistry points out, the term trial can sometimes send mixed signals. “In the industry, the term ‘trial’ has taken on a slightly negative tone,” she says. “Often attracting clients who may just be shopping around or aren’t fully aligned with your brand.”
What Is a Bridal Makeup Preview?
Now enter the makeup preview—same type of session, but with a different energy. A preview is typically scheduled after the bride has already booked her makeup artist. It’s a final run-through of a look that’s already been conceptually agreed upon. More than anything, it’s about alignment and building on an existing relationship.
As Jhazmyn explains, “The word ‘preview’ implies that the bride has already chosen to work with you and is simply getting a glimpse of her final bridal look. It’s rooted in trust and alignment.”
She adds that, in her own business, “Most brides have already booked by the time we meet for their bridal preview.” And that’s intentional. It signals a level of commitment from both sides, and shapes the experience in a more collaborative, confident direction.
Why Makeup Artists Are Preferring the Term “Preview”
So why are more makeup artists swapping trial for preview?
It starts with positioning. Using the word preview allows artists to frame their services for brides who are already aligned with their brand and aesthetic. It filters out clients who might just be hopping from artist to artist looking for the lowest price or a quick glam session.
“Technically, there’s no major difference between a bridal trial and a bridal preview in terms of what’s done,” Jhazmyn says, “but the language we use does matter. It comes down to how you want to position your business and the type of client experience you want to create.”
There’s also the emotional layer to consider—especially for Black brides, who don’t always see themselves reflected in mainstream bridal beauty. Jhazmyn’s approach ensures her clients feel safe, understood, and celebrated. “It’s an important moment for us to connect, build trust, and for me to fully understand their vision before the big day,” she says. “The preview plays a meaningful role in the experience I want to give my brides.”
While some makeup artists are stepping away from offering any pre-wedding appointments at all—citing time constraints or high demand—Jhazmyn still sees the value in this one-on-one time. “I know some artists no longer offer them due to busy schedules, and that’s completely understandable—every business is different. But for me, the preview is a key part of what I offer.”
There’s also clarity and honesty at the heart of her approach. Jhazmyn firmly believes that previews should never be offered if the artist isn’t available for the wedding day. “Absolutely not,” she says. “If an artist isn’t available for a bride’s wedding date, a trial should never be scheduled. Bringing a bride in for a preview, especially a paid one, knowing you can’t accommodate her big day not only sets false expectations, but also raises serious concerns about professionalism and integrity.”
And when it comes to whether every bride needs a preview? That’s a personal call. “Some brides feel completely confident in my skill and my work, so they choose to skip the preview, which is truly the highest compliment,” she says. “Others prefer to have that extra time together to fine-tune their look and ensure we’re fully aligned. At the end of the day, it’s all about what makes the bride feel most comfortable and supported.”
What’s in a Word?
Whether you book a trial or a preview, the intention should be the same: to make the bride feel like the best version of herself. But just know, the experience will be slightly different if you opt for a trial over a preview. Either way, it’s up to you. Hope this helps!
