Makeover madness
I have been contacted three times in a month by makeover companies. You know, the type that asks you to pay £10, puts loads of make up on you and then takes great pictures of you – charging you an arm and a leg because obviously, you’re going to want to keep said pictures… It seems two of my friends had a great experience recently and gave one of these makeover companies my details. As much as I love them for thinking of me, I think it’s only right to warn anyone else who’s considering this to learn from my experiences.
I’ve done this twice. Both times were in London when I was a student. Yes I was pampered and made to feel fabulous for the day. But once you’ve had your pictures taken, you are told you don’t have to keep your photos. But why wouldn’t you if they’re that great? And then they hit you with it. It’s only going to cost £100 per picture. Oh wait? Is that too high for you? Ok, they’ll make it £50 each. How on earth do they expect students to pay that much?
Unfortunately, the second time, my then 19-year-old student self quite liked four of the pictures and spent £200 on them… It was bread and cheese for dinner for quite some time after. Stupid, I know, but they are very persuasive people and say all the right things. They are also very intimidating if you try to leave empty-handed.
So my older, more jaded, self was ready for all three calls this month. Here’s a little insight for those of you considering having one of these “experiences”.
“Hi Rhona, how are you? Oh that’s great. I’m calling from so-and-so and you’ve won…blah blah blah” Me: “Do you get any free pictures?” Them: “No”.
Me: “How much does it cost to keep the pictures?” Them: “Er, well, actually I don’t have those figures to hand..” Me: “Surely you have a vague idea?” Them: “Well we work with your budget. It’s a great experience. And you’ll LOVE your pictures.”
Me: “So let me get this straight. I have to pay for travel to London and accommodation, and then I’m going to spend an unknown amount for photos, considering you’re telling me the pictures are great. Sorry, what part of this have I won?” Them: “But it’s a great experience.”
Me: “Sorry I’m not interested.” CLICK.
I rest my case. SCAM SCAM SCAM… You can take better pics on your camera phone.
From the photo’s I’ve seen, they always tend to give people the 80s makeover. Big hair, lots of blue/pink/ pink lipstick, lots of eyeliner..ew.
£100? for a picture? Well I never! I actually booked one of these things recently after they kept nagging me. I think I will turn up without my purse, knowing how gorgeous I am I can get really tempted by pics of myself. lol!