I have a potential client that is interested in wedding makeup. She had asked for me to meet her at her friends salon.

My dilemma is, I'm certified not licensed (CA) and I don't think I'm allowed to offer my services in a salon setting! What should I do?

I really want this gig!!

Just do it.  She wants you for your skills, not qualifications.  Seen lauren Luke and TiffanyD on YouTube?? None of them qualified, only passionate about makeup and look where they are today.  Go for it!!

I'M interested in hearing someone familiar with CA law chime in but here's a sematics way around things I just had to look into...
Working in a salon in another state for a workshop that is hands on applications... I'm not salon licensed in this state, I'm not interested in being licensed in this state either...
What worked out is a suggested tip for the workshop as opposed to a 'fee'.  It sounds silly but if attendees are recommended to tip as opposed to pay a regular fee you are not offering services in the salon for pay so can't be regulated.

This is one solution to one state's board requirements and not gauranteed to work for every state or regulatory agent. Something about it is bothering me to the point I'm pushing for another venue that my licensing is intended for but it was suggested by a liason at the cosmetology board.

Angel
RingMaster TOCSS

I agree that this is a SMART question to ask.... this isn't a "just do it" situation.

I have no idea if CA law sees a Consult on premises the same as an Application.

And.... the Salon Owner will be held Accountable if the meeting does happen to run afoul of the rules & regs. NOT a situation the OP wants to create, I'm sure.

Explain the situation and ask to meet somewhere else. Don't go tempting the Licensing Board if you don't absolutely have to.

Different countries have different laws.  In Canada you don't need a licence.

Just my opinion. But if you're doing a trial at her friends salon, and you're not employed by the salon and just using it as a place to do the makeup I don't see a problem. Now if you were employed at a salon and offering services without a license then I see the issue, esp for the salon owner. But if you're that worried, why not ask if you can meet at the client's home, this way it sounds like you're trying to make it more convenient for her.

If you are that concerned about it, express your concerns to the people involved, they would know best.