Before you hurry down to a counter, here are some things to note:

• Call to make an appointment at least a week in advance.
• Book your makeover about two hours before the event, giving the make-up artist ample time to work on you.
• Get your hair done before you head to the make-up counter.
• Change into your gown last. You don't want to dirty your dress while having your hair or make-up done.

FREE

CLARINS: Buy at least one item and get a free makeover. At counters islandwide. Call Clarins at Isetan Orchard (tel: 6732-8320) for enquiries.

CLINIQUE: Buy at least two items and get a free makeover. At counters islandwide, including Tangs Orchard (tel: 6733-0419), Metro Paragon (tel: 6735-1496) and Robinsons Raffles City (tel: 6334-6422).

RMK: From today till Dec 4, the first 50 Urban readers who call the counter at Isetan Scotts (tel: 6887-5308) to make an appointment will receive a free makeover plus a skincare and base make-up consultation.

SHISEIDO: You can get a free express makeover next month at Isetan Scotts (tel: 6735-0670), Takashimaya (tel: 6735-1039) and Tangs Orchard (tel: 6733-2589).

PAY A FEE

BOBBI BROWN: $80 registration fee that is redeemable for products. At counters islandwide, including Isetan Scotts (tel: 6734-3130), Takashimaya Department Store (tel: 6733-2486) and Robinsons The Centrepoint (tel: 6235-9711).

ESTEE LAUDER: $50 registration fee that is redeemable for products. At counters islandwide, including Isetan Scotts (tel: 6735-0385), Tangs Orchard (tel: 6733-5126) and Robinsons The Centrepoint (tel: 6235-2667).

M.A.C: $120 registration fee that is redeemable for products. You also get to take home a face chart of the colours used so you can replicate the look yourself. At counters islandwide, including Tangs Orchard (tel: 62350-7718) and Takashimaya Shopping Centre (tel: 6735-6622).

MAKE UP STORE: A makeover costs $35 each (usual price: $50) for students who come in pairs. At 02-341 Marina Square (tel: 6336-6828), 03-20 Paragon (tel: 6887-5828) and 01-02 VivoCity (tel: 6276-0988).

SHU UEMURA: Choose between getting made over by a beauty stylist ($55) or a make-up artist ($80). At counters islandwide, including Tangs Orchard (tel: 6734-6279), Robinsons Raffles City (tel: 6339-9273) and Takashimaya Department Store (tel: 6735-5318).

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times on Nov 14, 2008.