Unlocking Savings: Top Discounts, Promotions, and Grants for Makeup Artists
As a bridal makeup artist, staying updated with the latest discounts, promotions, and grants can significantly impact your business's profitability and growth.
Professional Makeup Discounts
Many professional makeup brands offer exclusive discounts for makeup artists. Here are a few notable ones:
MAC Cosmetics: MAC offers a Pro Membership program that gives professional makeup artists a 30% discount on products. Membership also includes access to masterclasses and industry events.
NARS: NARS offers a Pro Artist Discount Program, providing up to 40% off on their products depending on where you are in your career.
NYX: Their Makeup Crew program offers a 40% discount on all products for professional makeup artists, 30% for professional hairstylists, fashion designers, or cosmetologists, and 20% off for students.
Laura Mercier: This program offers professional artists who are currently the lead MUA in editorial, TV, and film up to 40% off and offers makeup students or assistants 25% off!
Urban Decay: UD Pro members get up to 40% off on most products and exclusive access to artistry deals. This program is only open to makeup artists working or in school.
Smashbox: Makeup artists who apply will get discounts on products and trend insights sent directly to them from the Smashbox studio!
Tarte: Earn up to 40% for artists and up to 20% off for students. Also, explore their many other exclusive deals that are FREE to apply for.
Makeup For Ever: At Makeup For Ever makeup students and industry professionals will earn 30% off and makeup artists get up to 40% off.
These programs usually require proof of profession, such as a portfolio, business card, or certification.
Educational Courses and Workshops Discounts
Continuing education is vital in the beauty industry. Here are some current promotions on educational resources:
Skillshare: Offers a free trial period and often runs promotions for significant discounts on their yearly membership, which includes various beauty and makeup courses.
Online Makeup Academy: Offers seasonal discounts on their comprehensive makeup courses, including bridal makeup specialization.
MasterClass: Occasionally provides discounts on annual memberships, giving access to classes from top beauty professionals.
Udemy: Frequently runs sales with courses discounted up to 90%, including many in the beauty and makeup category.
Beauty Supply Stores Discounts
Several beauty supply stores provide discounts and loyalty programs for makeup artists:
Nigel Beauty Emporium: Offers a Pro Discount Card that provides up to 20% off on various brands and products.
Camera Ready Cosmetics: Their Pro Artist Program gives members a discount of up to 40% on selected brands.
Frends Beauty: The Frends With Benefits program offers professional discounts on a wide range of products.
Alcone Company: Provides a Pro Discount Program offering significant savings for professional makeup artists.
Business Grants for Makeup Artists
Securing a grant can provide financial support for expanding your bridal makeup business. Here are some grant opportunities:
Amber Grant for Women: This grant awards $10,000 each month to a woman-owned business and an additional $25,000 annually to one of the monthly winners.
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program: Offers grants for small businesses engaging in research and development which can be particularly useful if you're developing a unique product or service in the beauty industry.
The Halstead Grant: Primarily for jewelry businesses, but if you offer bridal packages that include makeup and styling services, it’s worth exploring. The grant offers $7,500 in start-up capital and $1,000 in merchandise.
Tory Burch Foundation Fellowship: Provides grants and business education to women entrepreneurs.
Software and Marketing Tools
Enhance your business operations and marketing efforts with discounted software tools:
Canva Pro: Offers a 30-day free trial and periodic discounts on their annual subscription, helping you create stunning marketing materials.
HoneyBook: This client management software frequently offers discounts for new users, and it’s invaluable for booking and managing bridal clients.
QuickBooks: Often runs promotions with significant discounts on their accounting software, which is essential for managing your business finances effectively.
Hootsuite: Offers discounts on social media management tools, allowing you to streamline your marketing efforts.
Industry Events and Trade Shows Promotions
Attending industry events can provide networking opportunities and access to exclusive discounts:
The Makeup Show: Offers discounts on tickets for early registrations. This event is a great opportunity to network, attend workshops, and get exclusive product deals.
IMATS (International Makeup Artist Trade Show): Often provides discounts on tickets for members of professional organizations and early bird registrations. Attendees can also purchase products at significant discounts.
Beautycon: Offers discounted tickets for early bird purchases, providing a platform to connect with industry leaders and explore new products.
Staying informed about the latest discounts, promotions, and grants can help bridal makeup artists manage costs, access high-quality products, and grow their businesses. Take advantage of these opportunities to enhance your skills, expand your services, and boost your profitability. Keep an eye on industry newsletters and websites to stay updated on new offers and programs that can benefit your business.