My Stepsister Asked Me to Do Makeup and Hairstyles for Her and Her 6 Bridesmaids on Her Wedding Day – And Then Refused to Pay

As a 25-year-old freelance hair and makeup artist, I love helping women feel confident, though my income is modest. My stepsister, Claire, 28, always favored by family, has a history of exploiting me. Years ago, she promised free services to a friend without my consent, causing a rift when I clarified my fees. When she asked me to do her wedding hair and makeup, plus six bridesmaids, for $500—a steep discount—I agreed, trusting her promise to pay. On the wedding day, despite her criticism and demands, I delivered flawless looks, earning praise

from others. But Claire ghosted me when I asked for payment, claiming family shouldn’t charge family. Days later, she called, frantic, after another stylist botched her hair and makeup for an event. She begged for help, but I refused, citing her betrayal. When our mother urged me to fix it, I stood firm, done with Claire’s manipulation. I learned never to mix business with family, reclaiming my boundaries and self-respect while Claire faced the consequences of her broken promises.