TRIALS
Are trials required?
A trial is not required, but it is strongly encouraged. It’s a great opportunity for us to meet in person and perfect your look ahead of your wedding day. I find that trials help ensure everything goes smoothly and give you peace of mind, knowing exactly what to expect on the big day.
Can I schedule a trial without signing a contract?
Unfortunately, we're unable to accommodate that request at this time, as we must prioritize our availability for brides who have already booked. I completely understand your concerns, and I encourage you to take a look at my Instagram and reviews to ensure my style and the quality of my work align with what you're looking for. Bridal trials are available exclusively to clients who have secured their wedding day services with a retainer.
Why do I have to sign a contract before my trial?
I like to reassure my clients that signing a contract is not "soul binding," but rather a way to confirm your commitment to booking my services and to provide me with important details about your wedding. If you choose to change direction after signing, you are welcome to cancel, but please note that a cancellation must be made at least 120 days prior to your wedding date to avoid being responsible for the full service amount outlined in the contract. This policy ensures both parties are protected and that I can continue to offer the best possible service to all my clients.
How long does a trial take?
A trial typically takes 2 hours to complete. This allows us enough time to go over your desired look, make adjustments if needed, and ensure everything is just right.
When are you available for trials?
Trials are conducted at my private studio in Benicia, CA, and are available by appointment Monday through Thursday. Due to my wedding commitments, weekend appointments are unavailable from May through October. However, limited weekend dates are offered during the off-season, from November to April.
How far in advance should I book my trial?
It’s best to schedule your trial 6-3 months before your wedding day. This timing helps ensure that the look we create is still fresh in both of our minds as we approach your big day, making any last-minute adjustments easier to implement.
Can you travel to me for my bridal trial appointment?
Unfortunately, I do not travel on-location for bridal trials, and this policy is firm with no exceptions. All trials are held at my private studio in Benicia, CA.
Can my mom or bridesmaid get a bridal trial?
Bridal trials are exclusively available for the bride. On the wedding day, all members of the bridal party, including mothers, will receive a soft, elegant look to ensure a cohesive and harmonious theme.
If you have any specific concerns or requests regarding the look for any bridal party members, please feel free to email me. We can discuss the details and create a tailored game plan to meet everyone's needs.
WEDDING DAY
Can I get ready at my venue's bridal suite?
Yes, as long as you have early access to the suite to accommodate a makeup start time of 7:00 AM or earlier. If your venue has strict access hours and cannot allow early entry, you’ll need to get ready off-site—either at a nearby hotel or house rental. Please note: makeup start times are based on your desired finish time, not the venue’s availability.
Can I add or remove people/services after I sign my contract?
Once the contract is signed, I don’t allow any adjustments to the services count. This helps ensure that everything is properly planned and secured for your wedding day. If you have any changes in mind, it's best to finalize them before the contract is signed.
Can you hire an assistant?
Stefanie Weinapple Makeup is an independent artist & does not provide additional artists or organize teams. Referrals available upon request!
What is the service minimum and max?
All bookings require a minimum of 6 services (bride + 5 others or the dollar equivalent) and are capped at a maximum of 6 services. If you're hoping to book fewer than 6 services, feel free to inquire within 30 days of your event date to check for any remaining availability.
How will the day go?
I will arrive early to set up my work area and would greatly appreciate being near a large window with a table to set up my kit. As we’ll be on a tight schedule, I will be doing soft, natural looks for your bridal party and guests to streamline the process. This ensures that we stay on track, as anything bold or intricate (like dramatic smokey eyes or winged liner) would take more time and is not within my typical style.
I also recommend scheduling the bride second-to-last for makeup, and not last, to avoid any rushed feelings during her appointment.
If you’d like me to stay for bridal touch-ups after your first look or ceremony, I’ll be ready to jump in immediately after the last contracted service is finished. There won’t be any gaps or breaks, and I’ll remain by your side to assist with any shine, lip touch-ups, or quick fixes throughout your photos.
BOOKING
Can we schedule a consultation call?
While I don’t offer complimentary calls at this time, I’m more than happy to answer any questions you have via email. I also invite you to explore my portfolio and read through client testimonials to get a feel for my style and see what past brides have shared about their experience working with me. I want to ensure we’re the right fit, and I’m here to help however I can!
What is required to book?
To reserve your wedding date, I require a non-refundable retainer and a signed contract. This ensures that your date is officially secured and allows me to begin preparations for your special day.
When is the final payment due for my wedding day?
The final payment for your wedding day is due 14 days prior to your original event date. You will receive a reminder with instructions on how to pay online. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out!
Do I need to know my firm number of services at booking?
Yes, I will need to know your firm number of services at the time of booking. Please keep in mind that I do not allow any adjustments to the service count once the contract is signed, so it's important to finalize those details upfront.
Can I book you for my rehearsal or welcome party makeup?
Absolutely! I do require a minimum of 5 services or the equivalent dollar amount to secure a reservation. If you're looking to book a single session below that minimum, feel free to inquire about availability within 30 days of your event.
What brands of product do you carry in your kit?
I carry an assortment of luxury and professional products in my kit to ensure the best results for your look. Some of the brands I use include Armani, MAC, Tarte, Too Faced, Makeup Forever, Tom Ford, Dior, Makeup by Mario, Rare Beauty, Kosas, Fenty, Hourglass, NARS, Charlotte Tilbury, and Benefit, among others. I carefully select each product to suit your skin type and desired look, ensuring long-lasting, flawless results. Let me know if you have any questions about the products or brands I use!
How do I know if you’re the right artist for me?
If you're laid-back, trust me to bring your vision to life, and love soft glam that enhances your natural beauty—then we’ll be a perfect match.
I work best with clients who allow me to fully relax and do what I do best, without micromanaging. That’s truly when the magic happens—and it’s how you end up looking like one of the gorgeous brides you see in my portfolio and on my Instagram.
If you value professional, stress-free energy on your wedding day and want someone who truly cares about your comfort and confidence, I might just be your girl.
What happens if you're unable to work my event or wedding date?
I completely understand how hard it can be to trust someone with such an important day—and the thought of your artist canceling can be stressful.
Here’s the truth: it would take a serious emergency (we’re talking hospital-level) for me to ever miss a bride’s wedding. I’m fully committed to showing up and being there for you, no matter what.
In the rare event that something truly out of my control were to happen, I would do everything in my power to find you an incredible replacement. With over 10 years in the industry, I have a strong network of talented artists I can call on. While I can’t guarantee availability, it’s very likely I’d be able to connect you with someone I fully trust to take care of you.
You're never just another client to me—your experience matters, and I take that responsibility seriously.
I’ve never liked wearing makeup and I’m scared you’ll make me look “cakey”. What’s your process when creating a client’s makeup look?
I totally get it—getting your makeup professionally done can feel intimidating, especially if you’re someone who doesn’t wear much day-to-day. But here’s the truth: you should be obsessed with how your artist does skin. If you’re worried about looking cakey or not feeling like yourself, pay attention to how they handle complexion.
When I apply foundation, I work in thin, light layers, building coverage gradually and only where needed. This keeps the makeup breathable and skin-like while still achieving a polished, long-wearing finish.
In order for your makeup to be photo-ready and last all day, I do use a combination of liquids, creams, and powders. Layering products is key to that flawless, durable look—but it can also emphasize your skin’s natural texture like pores, fine lines, acne, or dryness. That’s why consistent skincare is non-negotiable.
To get the best results, I recommend following a daily skincare routine:
✔️ Cleanse
✔️ Tone
✔️ Hydrate
✔️ Exfoliate once a week
Monthly facials and dermaplaning are also great tools to help prep your skin and keep it smooth and glowing. The better shape your skin is in, the better your makeup will look and wear.
I’ll make sure your makeup looks flawless on my end—but it’s a team effort. You bring the skincare, I’ll bring the glam.
What is it like working with you, and what can I expect?
Working with me feels relaxed, fun, and fully supported. I bring a kind, calming energy to every session while staying organized and on top of the details that matter—especially on a day as important as your wedding.
I value clear communication, transparency, and healthy boundaries, so you’ll always know what to expect. My clients trust me to bring their vision to life without hovering over every detail—and that’s where I truly thrive. When I’m given the creative freedom to do what I do best, the results speak for themselves.
If you’re looking for someone who’s professional but laid-back, detailed but easygoing, and genuinely cares about your experience from start to finish—we’ll be a great fit.