Being a freelance makeup artist and hairstylist will always require some level of travel. And the traveling artist is not new to the schlepping of kit. Perhaps being the most exhausting and despised aspect of the job is the toting of kit.
SCHLEPPING
Why is this so daunting? The average kit can weigh between 25-50 Pounds (11.33-22.67kg). From home to back of car, to location, unloading and unpacking, to packing up, back to trunk, to home. This is all in hopes that there are no steps along the way. It’s hard to believe one does not receive their movement badge just from getting to and from work. The artist sets aside about 45min of the typical work day just to schlep. Oh the joys of being a freelancer. Inspite of this we strut our way to and from gigs with pride like we are walking in our very own runway show.
ARTIST HOARDING
All it takes is one job where you didn't have something you needed to turn the most minimalist artist into a maximalist. Ready for the just in case, and what ifs. The Artist's kit can become the Mary Poppins Bag of cosmetics.
The problem with this is, whether local or destination, in most instances, an overstocked kit is unprofessional and costly. Walking through hotel lobbies with multiple suitcases and accessory boxes without being a guest is annoying for everyone involved. Being a fellow service industry professional are you prepared to tip the bellman $5/bag, are you sure your client will? If your client tips the bellman for you are you sure it wont come out of your gratuity? For desintintation travel keeping the checked luggage to a minimum means more profit for you. For house calls you really think the client wants to risk nicked walls from your luggage because you couldn't prepare your kit appropriately? Money aside lugging so much STUFF that you need a bellman/assistance will not only delay your arrival to the room and create a fuss, it will delay your exit! A prompt exit is just as important and your on time arrival...Unless you are friends... and not just friendly but actual go out for drinks, send each other memes kind of friends, your client doesnt want you lounging around their room once the job is done. Finally, let's not forget, we often BARELY have enough space for a proper set up of the products we will actually need and use let alone our entire stock and back stock! So keep it simple... Keep it light.
CONSOLIDATION
The goal with kit consolidation is to only bring what you need. For flight travel gigs, for example, the goal is to only bring one carry on roller for your hair and makeup supplies. This can be easily accomplished by applying these easy recommendations:
MOOD BOARDS
Having a clear consultation with your client will allow you to create mood boards. Mood boards are inspiration photos/examples of the style look and feel you and the client are going for. The artist and client collaborating on a mood board will assist in being on the same page of desires, do's and don'ts. Deciding on a "look" is key to having a clear vision of the end result which is essential to consolidation.
VISUALIZATION
Once you know the "look" lay out your entire kit (you know, that overstuffed thing you've got lugging around). Then, step by step pull from your kit what you would use to create the look, start to finish. Lay these items to the side.
SAMPLE SIZE
This is especially important for destination gigs where the client isnt keen on three figure luggage fees. All creams liquids and pastes can be depotted into smaller containers. For example you do not need an entire tube of foundation for one look not even for two or three looks. A 1oz container of foundation is more than enough for multiple days of looks. Apply that same theory to primers, skin care, blushes, hair gels and pastes.... Anothe pro tip is that most hair care companies also create travel size option on all their products since hair spray can not be depotted this is a great option for a consolidated kit. Entclés' The Box and HTC one pocket sleeve is the perfect companion for a consolidated kit.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Consolidation takes time and preparation, but it is worth the effort in the long run. It looks more clean and professional saving money, time, space and energy in the long run. While a last minute kit consolidation can cause skipped items, starting at least a few hours before you leave will allow time to run the checklist through your head for potential forgotten items.