Warning: Caused Severe Allergic Reaction
*Of note, this…read morehappened in March 2024 and fees are reflected from this time
I had a horrific and scary experience with Ani that I feel compelled to warn others about. I booked a makeup trial in preparation for my WEDDING, expecting professionalism and basic industry standards. Instead, I walked away with a severe allergic reaction that took 48 hours to heal.
From the start, she charged $325 for a trial. Compared to other makeup artists who either have no charge or charge less for a trial, $325 is excessive. Upon booking, I explicitly stated that I have sensitive skin and expected her to read my notes prior to the appointment.
I traveled from San Francisco to see her in Glendale. Because I was traveling from out of town, I made several appointments back-to-back to make the most of my time in LA county. My appointment with Ani was at 8:30 am. On the day of my appointment, she was late. This made me late for my subsequent appointments that day.
When she got to the studio, she immediately rushed into applying products without disclosing the ingredients and without checking if they were safe for my skin -- an inexcusable oversight for anyone working in a field where skin contact is central to the job.
Within SECONDS, my skin began to burn, swell, and break out in hives. Thankfully, my mom was with me to help grab Benadryl from my purse. Instantly, I asked what she applied and told her (AGAIN) my skin is sensitive. She was horrified by the reaction of my skin, as it was red, swollen, and very clearly burned from her product - which I now know was moisturizer. She quickly removed the moisturizer with what I think was micellar water, and gave me a frozen water bottle to apply to my face.
Out of shock and embarrassment, I tried to stay calm. Regrettably, I continued to sit in the chair. I should have immediately ran out of the studio, but I could not think straight!
She proceeded to complete my eye make-up, which was admittedly very beautiful (hence the 2 stars).
At the end of the session, I paid her the remaining balance and even TIPPED her. This was a HUGE mistake and I should have never paid her. She also never offered a refund, or a solution. Instead, she texted me a few months later asking if I was still interested in booking her for my wedding! When I kindly refused, she negotiated and offered to take $100 off her overall price for bridal makeup which was $525 (??, she now charges $600 for bridal makeup). The audacity....
I will never forget the physical aftermath on my skin and the emotional stress of this experience. What should have been an exciting part of my event planning, turned into a nightmare.
Let me be very clear: if you value your skin, your health, and basic professionalism, proceed with caution with Ani. There are plenty of talented and unselfish artists out there. Learn from my experience and do not take the risk. Pictures are attached, as proof that I'm not bullshitting
