I've been!
Hi,
I went to this last year at Kensington and its interesting to note that it cost £25 last year and not £50. I also got an invite to this year's class too.
Basically, what happened last year was that they have two senior artists each demonstrating a different look on two models. They do this simulataneously. One is a daytime look and the other is an evening look. Tracy and Lynsey were demonstrating last year. So this is everything from foundation, blush, eye makeup and lipstick. You need to watch carefully and closely.
The room downstairs has 4 tables and each table seats 4 people. Each table is supervised by one MAC artist. So once the senior artists have finished doing their looks its up to everybody to decide which one they like collectively and then basically replicate that look on yourself. Everybody did the same look. Its fun if you go with a friend. Each table will have all the makeup and brushes you need and things like foundation and concealer are on the side.
I think the whole class is about 2-3 hours long and refreshments are provided like tea/coffee and biscuits. Its a nice, informal atmosphere. The artists at the table are there to help you and the senior artists also come round to see what you're doing.
All in all its a fun experience, however just bear in mind that this isn't something like having a MAC artist devote all their time to you. They have to divide their time between all 4 of you at the table. Also another thing to bear in mind is that you might not be able to clearly see the senior artists doing their demo, especially if you are at a table at the back. Thats basically the most important part. The tables are arranged with two at the front and two at the back. So make sure you get there early and sit at the front.
However, it is really fun and you do learn a new look and ofcourse you can redeem your £50 against lots of products. You also get a complimentary black MAC folder with a face chart of both looks, a notepad and a MAC pencil to make notes. Woo hoo for MAC collectors!
If on the other hand you're not so confident with makeup, you're after a specific look which you want somebody to teach you and ONLY you then book a MAC lesson. That also costs £50.
BTW a makeup lesson is different to a makeover. The makeover costs £25 and is where an artist only does a look of your choice on you. A lot of counters and standalone stores run makeovers. They do not teach you and its shorter. The MAC artist has to be lesson qualified to do a lesson and I think only Kings Road and Kensington run lessons.
I hope this helps x
