Alright, let’s get real: networking isn’t just about shaking hands and swapping business cards—it’s about forming genuine, lasting relationships that help you grow in your makeup artist career. When you start building connections with wedding planners and photographers, you’re tapping into a whole network of potential clients and collaborators. Here’s how you can do it like a pro.
- Just Show Up
You can’t make connections if you’re not where the action is. Wedding expos, bridal shows, local industry meetups—these are all great places to meet planners and photographers in person. I remember attending a bridal show years ago, and that’s where I met a photographer whose work I’d admired online. We instantly hit it off, and she ended up recommending me to one of her brides. Sometimes, just showing up is all it takes to get your foot in the door. - Learn What They Need
Wedding planners and photographers are all about creating a perfect day for the couple, but they each have their own set of priorities. Planners want things to run smoothly and on time, while photographers care about makeup that’s going to last and look good on camera. When you talk to them, focus on how you can solve their problems. For example, a photographer might appreciate a makeup look that’s not too shiny under bright lights or that stays flawless throughout a 12-hour shoot. Show them you understand their world, and you’ll be a valuable addition to their team. - Get Involved in Styled Shoots
Styled shoots are a fantastic way to network with wedding vendors without the pressure of a real wedding. These shoots allow you to showcase your talent while collaborating with photographers and planners. I’ve had some of my best connections come from styled shoots—it’s the perfect low-stakes way to show off your skills and build your portfolio. And who knows? That photographer you worked with might just refer you to their next client. - Follow Up and Stay Professional
You don’t want to just disappear after meeting someone, right? Keep the conversation going by following up after you meet. A quick email or DM saying “Hey, great chatting with you! I’d love to collaborate on something soon” can do wonders. And trust me, planners and photographers notice when you’re reliable. Always follow through on promises—whether that’s sending your portfolio or responding quickly to inquiries. It’s the little things that show you’re serious about your business. - Refer and Be Referrable
Networking is a two-way street. One thing I’ve learned is that when you refer a trusted photographer or planner to a client, it often comes back to you. Planners especially appreciate makeup artists who have reliable suggestions for other vendors. When you build that trust and start helping them out, they’ll do the same for you. Plus, being known as a team player goes a long way in this industry. - Get Social (Literally)
Social media is your best friend when it comes to connecting with wedding vendors. Follow your local photographers and planners, engage with their posts, and share their work when you can. Don’t be shy about tagging them in your posts, either. I’ve found that the more I engage with wedding vendors online, the more natural our conversations become. It’s not about pushing your services—it’s about being genuine and showing interest in their work. - Give a Little to Get a Lot
Once you’ve built a good connection, look for ways to give back. It could be featuring a wedding planner’s recent event on your Instagram or even offering a free trial or discounted service to a planner you admire in exchange for a testimonial. Little gestures like these show you’re committed to building a strong, collaborative relationship. It’s all about building trust, and sometimes, giving a little extra can help you stand out.
It’s about creating real connections that go beyond business transactions. The wedding industry is all about teamwork—planners, photographers, and makeup artists working together to make a couple’s big day unforgettable. The more you focus on building relationships, the more your network—and your business—will grow.
