What is the best software for a freelance makeup artist?

For bridal and on-location work, a client-management tool usually fits better than salon software: HoneyBook (from $36 a month) and Dubsado (from $35) handle inquiries, contracts, deposits and payment plans. For simple bookings, Square Appointments has a $0 plan with contracts and deposits, and Acuity Scheduling starts at $20.

Best Software for Freelance and Bridal Makeup Artists

A wedding party booking is a small project: inquiry, trial, contract, deposit, travel fee, final balance and a timeline on the day. Pick software for that flow, not just for a calendar.

Client-Management Tools

HoneyBook: Starter $36, Essentials $59, Premium $129 a month; proposals, contracts, invoices, lead forms and HoneyBook AI. Card processing from 2.7% + 10¢.
Dubsado: Starter $35 and Premier $55 a month; contracts, invoicing and payment plans, with scheduling and workflows on Premier. 21-day trial.

Booking Tools With Deposits

Square Appointments: $0 plan; prepayments, deposits and automatic contracts with e-signature.
Acuity Scheduling: from $20 a month; clients book in their time zone, with payments.
GlossGenius: from $28 a month with a booking website, deposits and invoices.

A Simple Setup

One inquiry form on your site or Instagram.
A proposal with your packages, trial and travel fee.
A contract signed before the deposit.
Automatic reminders for the balance.

Compare them side by side: HoneyBook vs Dubsado.

Common Questions

Do I Need a Contract for Bridal Bookings?

Most artists use one to set the deposit, cancellation terms, travel fees and timing. Have a local attorney review your template; software only delivers and stores it.

Can I Take Payment Plans?

Dubsado lists payment plans, and HoneyBook lists invoices and payments with optional tips.

Sources

Basis: Vendor pricing pages.