The prospect of attending a beauty event is one that’s infinitely more exciting than attending, say, a fashion or restaurant launch. Contrary to popular belief, the beauty beat is one of the most accepting, good-vibes circles you’d ever find yourself in as a journalist or content creator. I’ve never felt bored or excluded in one until recently, when I think I was mistaken for a gatecrasher.
I followed the blush pink dress code even if it washed me out as a deep winter. But I guess my body type was suspect—as I peered through the front door, I could only see size 2 youths shimmying around the room in their Shein dresses and Louis Vuitton Pochettes. Meanwhile, my size 10 ass was stopped at the door.
“Hi, ma’am, we can’t find your name on the list. May we know who invited you?” a man who seemed to be from the PR company asked. Rude. I told him I was a guest of the brand. He looked at me suspiciously and—the horror—started entertaining someone else.
As I stood there seething for what felt like an eternity, ready to leave and curse them to the high heavens (“Your products are irritating, anyway! And your dropper bottle sucks!”), my Fave Brand Person saw me and pulled me in. She snapped at the PR and brought me to a Very Important Table. Did I feel vindicated? Sure, but I still couldn’t shake off the embarrassment.
Was I the Clueless in this scenario? Could I have done something else to change the course of events? Or could the registration team have benefitted from a few etiquette tips from their seniors? It all got me thinking what else we’ve been doing wrong. Perhaps we can spare each other the humiliation by simply knowing how to conduct ourselves at these functions. Here’s an unsolicited but much-needed list of common offenses and how to act instead.
For Organizers
Don’t look at people with suspicion.
Let’s be clear, not all content creators are just after free products. A decent number actually care about their livelihood, and therefore, will try to uphold a sterling reputation—one that’s not tainted with freeloading allegations. And just because someone doesn’t look a certain way (not skinny, not snatched, not Gen Z), that doesn’t make them gatecrashers or impostors. Get some DEI training (that’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, for the uninitiated), please!
Don’t treat guests like mere names ranked on a list.
Be gracious hosts and make sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable. Yes, that’s regardless of their influencer tier. We know the ranking exists, but try not to make it so obvious to us. Create a safe space where all your attendees feel included. Veteran organizers know the importance of spotting an introverted guest and hanging out with them until they spot a familiar face. These gestures of kindness are never forgotten. They make work events feel less transactional and more human.
Don’t forget that you’re dealing with egos.
At this age, dealing with TikTok creators is almost like dealing with rockstars. Not saying they are rockstars, but some of them do have the same inflated sense of entitlement. Unfortunately, managing them and making sure they don’t butt heads is part of your very, very fun job.
For example, holding two events—one fancy and one mass market—is common practice these days. If you’re going to do this, try not to have them on the same day or at the same venue. THESE WORLDS CANNOT COLLIDE, at least not when Venus is carrying a much bigger press gift than Mars. Granted, you have every right to decide which guests get premium gifts. Just please make sure there are no “bad gifts” or you’ll end up with a PR nightmare.
For Guests
Don’t be a passenger princess.
A dream guest is someone who’s on time, polite, and most importantly, present. Even if you can only stay for 30 minutes, make those minutes count. Say hi to your host and seatmates. Introduce yourself to the brand representatives. Ask about their products (it helps if you do your homework beforehand). Do interviews. Thank them for inviting you. And if you must ask for your press gift, please do it discreetly on your way out.
Don’t spill the tea.
When you’re around friends and familiar faces, it’s easy to forget you’re actually at a work event. Next thing you know, you’ve aired your company’s dirty laundry to the “enemy” and there’s no turning back. You can save the juicy tea for when you and your beauty gals are safely out of the building. Trust me, news about a nepo baby editor can wait. Stay professional and avoid gossiping at the table. If you’re at the receiving end, nod politely but do not engage. You never know who’s listening! Plus, it’s just bad form.
Don’t be desperate.
There, I said it. Complaining about gifts and not being invited to the “good event”? It’s giving… desperate. While realizing your (abysmal) worth in clicks and views can be tough, resist the urge to create a rant post in the heat of the moment, only to make a sad apology post when you finally come to your senses. At the end of the day, it’s just stuff. Your reputation and integrity are far more valuable than any monogrammed limited-edition lip gloss. Don’t lose them in your quest for clout.
Basic social etiquette can keep our beloved beauty beat fun and drama-free. Can I count on you to be a team player? I guess we’ll find out at the next event—if they let me in.
Reporting from the sidelines,
Your Stunning Satire Specialist
Illustration by Sandy Aranas.
