I agree, going in to have it done helps. I splurge on certain items, know where to save on others. For powder or foundation, I like MAC or Clinique. Be sure to get your color matched professionally though, nothing worse than looking like a pumpkin or ghost . I like a kohl eyeliner, Rimmel makes an excellent one and it's cheap. I love MAC/Urban Decay eyeshadow because of the pretty and quality pigments that go a long way just by using a little. My lips I play down, and just use Nivea Milk and Honey.
Most of all, just "practice" at home, think of your face as the canvas I usually do my friend's makeup when we go out and it's a lot of fun.
Oh, and choose one to play up, never do 2 features at once.