MAC Makeup Store

Behind the Scenes at the MAC Makeup Store

At the MAC makeup store, also known as a freestanding store (as opposed to the brand's department store counters), the focus is on artistry. Anyone who has ever undergone a makeover knows all too well the dreaded anxiety that erupts as soon as the makeup artist has finished doing his or her work. You're expected to purchase products – and not just one. You are often left feeling pressured, beaten down, and dismayed at the experience. Generally, you are unlikely to return for a second helping.

Fortunately, the mentality at the MAC makeup store is completely different. MAC, or Make-up Art Cosmetics, Inc., is a division of beauty giant Estee Lauder. Coming from such an esteemed family, it is simply no wonder that the MAC philosophy differs so vastly from other brands. At MAC, clientele are treated with respect, friendliness and a willingness to actually help. There is a marked lack of intensity on the selling aspect – this is due in part to the company's decision to pay its employees the highest possible hourly rate. Thus, the focus is directed toward the customer herself and not her potential as a commission-earner for the makeup artist.

The MAC makeover experience is as informative as it is enjoyable. A half-hour makeup session with a licensed, trained artist involves a lesson in choosing the appropriate colors, as well as how to apply them properly. The following is a basic rundown of a makeover session at a MAC makeup store:

1. The client arrives and is seated in a high, comfortable leather chair. The client is encouraged to browse the store for ideas before settling down; this allows a more interactive, one-on-one experience between the makeup artist and the customer.
2. The makeup artist will collect a group of cosmetics appropriate for the client's skin tone. If the colors are not suited to the client's liking, she should feel free to suggest an alternative. The store is filled with products in every hue of the rainbow – there is always something suitable available.
3. The makeup artist removes any existing makeup from the client's face. It is always helpful to arrive bare-faced to a makeover session, but this is not a requisite to receiving a makeover.
4. Half of the client's face is made up using the selected range of cosmetics. While applying the cosmetics, the makeup artist explains his technique to the client, allowing her to ask questions as needed.
5. The client is then invited to make up the other half of her face based on the techniques learned. The makeup artist offers color advice and corrective hints and tips based on the client's unique needs and concerns.
6. The client will normally be asked what she wishes to purchase, but there is no pressure involved. The makeup artist encourages the client to consider her choices carefully, and he will also provide the client with a list of all the products used during the makeover.

A couple of points to remember:

• If you are planning to receive a makeover, call the MAC makeup store beforehand and schedule an appointment. The store tends to be busiest on weekends and weeknights.
• The artists will work with you to create any type of look you desire, whether it is bold and unusual or soft and subtle. From club-ready makeup to wedding-appropriate faces, the makeup artists will take on the task.
• Each makeover session generally lasts between 30 and 45 minutes.

Locations

There are over 1000 MAC makeup stores located around the world. The majority of the North American locations are found inside shopping malls. The freestanding stores differ from the department store counters; often, the stores offer exclusive, limited edition items not available anywhere else. For a complete list of MAC makeup stores, visit the company's official web site.