Hi, actually departmental store cosmetic brands like Estee Lauder, YSL, Kose etc, will periodically come up with promotions where you pay $X (e.g. $60) for a make-up class but the entire amount is redeemable for that brand's products.
Bobbi Brown was also running a course of 4 make-up classes last year, but I don't think they still do it.
The ads for these will either appear in the newspapers (especially ST's Life on Thursday) or via credit card mailers. Typically, the ads also tends to be when the brands release their spring/summer or autumn/winter collection. The companies are trying to raise the profile of their new colours, that's why they time it.
[I used to be from the perfume & cosmetics industry, that's why I know there's this pattern
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I find this is a good way to learn some simple makeup tips while getting your money's worth e.g. the make-up class becomes free if you get their products.
That being said, after learning make-up tips, it's important to practice. Buy some inexpensive basic cosmetics & good brushes and experiment in e privacy of your own home.
Although I've learnt tricks before, as my work makeup is super-minimal, I can't draw smokey eyes or complicated makeup etc due to lack of practice.
Hope this helps.