Two super-busy young professionals, living out of state, planning an elaborate wedding at Nestldown Estate just outside Silicon Valley – it’s clear they needed assistance! I was so honored that they chose my company, A Day Like No Other, to help with the planning and design, and the bride’s parents took over the tasks of site visits and tastings that had to be done in-person. After a year of planning and designing, everything finally came together beautifully under blue skies and a warming May sunshine.
For Sally and her friends, her sister, mother and mother-in-law, the day began at the elegant Hotel Los Gatos…
… where they all received beauty services by Felicia Wei and assistants of Bun Bun Bridal Lab – and look how gorgeous the results were! Photographer Gavin Farrington with second shooter Paula captured the whole day from start to finish – however, for the time being, all we have to show are my cellphone shots. Just wait until you see the professional photos!
At Nestldown, meanwhile, several vendor teams (including myself and my associate Stephanie Hui) were hard at work to get everything ready for the celebration; Ephraim of Apis Florals and his crew put up gorgeous floral arrangements…
…. a gilded circular arch, decorated with a profusion of flowers, and a sofreh-aghd, the traditional Persian wedding spread (the bride is of Persian heritage), in the “Chapel,” a natural clearing in the Redwoods at Nestldown, where all ceremonies are held.
Guests were arriving via convenient shuttle service (by Corinthian Ground Transportation) and making their way to the lavishly decorated ceremony area.
Time for the ceremony!
Here comes the bride, with her parents, serenaded by the Corelli String Trio. The unique Persian-American ceremony was officiated by Sally’s best friend from college, together with Sally’s sister, with participation from her uncle, nephews and nieces, and a friend of the couple. This was a very personal, heartfelt moment for all.
The sofreh was a labor of love by the bride’s parents – her father built the table himself, her mother supplied all the symbolic items that are displayed on the sofreh, and her sister contributed to the ceremony with explanations for all guests who might not be familiar with the Persian wedding customs.
As part of the wedding ceremony, female family members shower the couple with sugar, rubbed over their heads, symbolizing the sweetness of marriage.
Just married!!
While Chris and Sally had to take more romantic photos – and video by Two4Tea – on the beautiful grounds of Nestldown…
…their guests enjoyed cocktails (by Bacchus Wine and Spirits) and hors d’oeuvres by Wylder Space Catering at the “Apple Knoll” event space – under a pergola hung with crystal chandeliers!
Another personal touch: Chris’ and Sally’s beloved canine Neville was cheering guests from the cocktail napkins…
… and Corelli Springs again provided the elegant musical background.
A truly elegant affair! Come dinner time, guests were invited to Nestldown’s Main Lawn …
… where tables with elegant floral centerpieces…
… a seating chart arranged on a huge mirror….
…..and place settings with individual leather name tags awaited them.
After a delicious dinner (by Wylder Space Catering) and heartfelt speeches by their parents, everyone moved inside the “Barn”, the central event space at Nestldown, for cutting the wedding cake and enjoying Persian desserts (by C’est Si Bon Bakery)…
… and for a huge surprise for the couple: a saxophonist whom the bride’s sister had secretly hired to play alongside DJ Woody Miraglia (of Big Fun Disc Jockeys) – a dream come true for Sally and Chris! Saxophonist Justin Ward, a musician through and through, accompanied the newlyweds’ First Dance under the giant crystal chandelier…
… and from that moment on, it was only “dance, dance, dance” for the rest of the evening. A Grand Send-off with shimmering bubbles was the last high point of this incredible celebration, before the couple was whisked away in the authentic vintage London taxi which is one of the special perks at Nestldown.
Keep celebrating and dancing, Sally and Chris – wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!
Wondering whether or not to have live music at your wedding, in particular Jazz music? Here are all the answers you need, from a real “industry veteran” – Robbie Schlosser, leader of the Magnolia Jazz Trio. To me, they are the absolute “gold standard” of Bay Area Jazz.
How did I get into music? I grew up in a musical family where everyone played something, and I was no exception—starting on violin, then cornet, French horn, and eventually string bass. Like many kids, I listened to popular music on the radio, and one day my dad gave me an LP of early jazz. I was hooked. I started a jazz band in high school, and the passion stuck. Years later, as a grad student at Stanford, I heard the Preservation Hall Jazz Band play live—and right then, I decided to make music my life.
And how did I get into weddings? I formed the Magnolia Jazz Band in 1975. At first, we played public and private events—sometimes as a dance band, sometimes a trio. As we played more, we were invited to more weddings. Over time, the trio became our specialty. We still play all kinds of celebrations, but weddings are something special.
What fascinates me about weddings? Every wedding is a unique celebration. Sure, most follow a familiar structure, but each one is personalized—especially through music. The songs a couple chooses reflect who they are. Everything—the venue, decor, food, photographer, and the coordinator—adds to the one-of-a-kind vibe.
What’s our style? Our style is upbeat, familiar, and fun—music that people recognize and enjoy. It’s rooted in the New Orleans jazz tradition and the American Songbook, spanning the 1920s to today.
How have I evolved? Three ways: I keep practicing and improving my craft. I’ve learned to better serve people—like a great concierge or waiter, helping clients get exactly what they want. And I’ve become more organized and efficient, handling hundreds of small details behind the scenes.
How do couples find me? Mainly through word-of-mouth—friends, past clients, and industry colleagues like coordinators and caterers. I stay visible online with a website and regular posts on social media.
Why choose live music? Both live and recorded music can enhance a wedding. But live music offers a unique presence—a real-time connection between the musicians and the guests that brings the moment to life.
Is live music expensive? Not necessarily. There are options at every price point. A great DJ might cost more than a small band, and vice versa. Live music can be surprisingly affordable and incredibly impactful.
Want to listen? Here you go! A soundbite for you. Enjoy!
I have done several elegant weddings at SCVCC over the years, and all I can say is – it’s really special.
Located outside San Jose in bustling Silicon Valley, it feels a world away. Set in acres of rolling hills in an upscale residential neighborhood, with a light-filled, elegant clubhouse perfect for celebrations, and with a dedicated ceremony area in front of a waterfall, manicured lawns and top-notch service, it’s a wonderful choice for an extraordinary wedding day.
Photo credit: Clane Gessel
There are so many picturesque spots for photos…
Photo credit: Frank J. Lee
Photo credit: Clane Gessel
Photo credit: Toan Ven
Photo credit: Toan Ven
Here is an example of a wedding ceremony in front of the waterfall:
Photo credit: Frank J. Lee
You can then take a stroll through the manicured park…
Photo credit: Frank J. Lee
… or take a golf cart, just for the fun of it…
Photo credit: Clane Gessel
…and then have more photos taken inside the Clubhouse – with its dramatic staircase:
Photo credit: Clane Gessel
Photo credit: Clane Gessel
And here is the expansive ballroom (with space for 300+ guests!):
Photo credit: Toan Ven
After nightfall, the grounds offer even more opportunities for dramatic photos:
30 yrs ago, a young couple starting their family purchased 180 acres of wilderness in the Santa Cruz Mountains and, through persistent hard work, they “moved a mountain” in the literal sense of the word; they transformed it into their vision of a garden oasis, for themselves, their children and ultimately, for wedding celebrations. They built a huge (elegant!) barn – already planned as a fully outfitted event space – where their children could play; a storybook cottage for their girls, a life-size train for their boys (father and son), a tree house… and over the years added innumerable extra touches to what is now the ultimate elegant wedding destination in the Redwoods. With a natural Redwood “chapel” for ceremonies, ponds, meadows, 36 acres of manicured gardens, mature trees with permanently installed twinkle lights casting a magical glow at dusk – Nestdown has become the perfect combination of elegance and natural beauty. It is still owned and managed by the same family, meanwhile supported by the children who had the good fortune growing up in this magical place.
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
I have been honored to be included in the small handful of wedding planners allowed to work at this exceptional venue, and here are images from the many, many weddings I have been privileged to plan, design and produce there. Let me show you around…
The “Chapel,” a natural clearing in the redwoods, paved with flagstones for the most romantic ceremony spot imaginable.
Photo credit Bre Thurston
Photo credit JJ Chen
These are the wedding photos you want to see again and again, down the road, in twenty years…
Photo credit Bre Thurston
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
Photo credit Megan Reeves
Photo credit Megan Reeves
Of course, you need a photo with the Fairytale Cottage…
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
… and with the train… and the tree house… while your guests are enjoying cocktails!
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
Dinner on the Main Lawn is magical, as dusk is falling…
Photo credit Bre Thurston
Photo credit Bre Thurston
… and after that, it’s dancing, dancing, dancing under the enormous crystal chandelier in the Barn.
Photo credit Ben Ingram
And at Nestldown, the Grand Send-Off of the newlyweds is definitely one of the highlights of the event!
Photo credit Bre Thurston
Through a “tunnel” of cheering guests, the couple departs to a waiting authentic London taxi!
Photo credit Melissa Floriano
Bon voyage and a lifetime of happiness – which started on this magical day at Nestldown.
Expert interview with videographer Will Cook of Kindlewood Films
Will and I go back many years – and we’ve collaborated on quite a few weddings. For many couples, videography is an afterthought, and for some even an “unnecessary expense.” WRONG, says Will… let’s see why that is so!
“How did you get into videography/wedding videography?“ I started out in commercial and documentary filmmaking, but found myself drawn to the emotion and storytelling of weddings. A friend asked me to film their big day years ago, and I was hooked. There’s something really special about capturing such an important, personal moment and turning it into a cinematic keepsake.
“How many weddings have you done?“ Over the years, I’ve filmed more than 150 weddings across California and beyond. Each one is a little different, which keeps it fresh and creatively fulfilling.
“Which qualities, in your opinion, are crucial for a great wedding videographer?“ A great wedding videographer needs to be calm under pressure, always aware of what’s happening, and able to anticipate the moments before they happen. But just as important is having a filmmaker’s eye—using light, sound, and movement to tell the story in a beautiful, meaningful way.
“What is the difference between cellphone video by wedding guests and a professional wedding video?“ Cell phone videos are great for capturing quick moments, but a professional wedding video is intentional. It’s shot with multiple cameras, crisp audio, cinematic framing, and professional editing. The difference is like comparing a home video to a short film.
“What does wedding video add BEYOND wedding photos?“ Photos freeze moments in time, but video brings them to life. You can hear your vows, see your loved ones move and speak, relive the speeches, the laughter, the energy on the dance floor. It captures the emotional heartbeat of the day in a way nothing else can.
“What are the criteria by which couples should choose their wedding videographer?“ Connection and trust are key. Look for someone whose work resonates with you emotionally, who communicates clearly, and who you feel comfortable having around on your wedding day. Style, professionalism, and personality all matter.
“What makes wedding videography so expensive?“ A lot goes into it—multiple cameras, high-end audio gear, lighting, travel, and most importantly, the time. A single wedding can take 60+ hours to edit. You’re not just paying for a service, you’re investing in a piece of storytelling that you’ll watch for decades.
“Anything else you’d like to add?“ I always tell couples: your wedding day will go by fast, and there’s no way to remember everything. Video lets you relive it. Years from now, when voices have changed or loved ones are gone, having that story captured is priceless.
Want to see living proof of how powerful a wedding video can be? Here is one that Will did at one of my weddings!
Laura and her Mersonacta Quartet have played many times at my weddings and imparte them with an upscale, polished feel that pre-recorded music just can’t create. She of all people knows everything about WHY you should have live music at your wedding, at the very least at your ceremony.
“How did you get into music? And then into WEDDING music? What is it that fascinates you about it?” My parents are musicians so I come by it honestly! As for wedding music, it’s a fun way to make people really happy. It’s such a special day for a couple and it’s really fun to contribute to that joy and lasting memory.
“What is your specific style and why?” I love playing all the pop songs but I’m actually trained as a baroque musician. I have a Master’s degree in baroque performance and that’s my favorite music to play (Bach, Handel, Corelli, etc).
“How have you evolved as a musician?” I’m constantly evolving – learning new stuff, learning how much I can improve. Playing with other people is such a fun way to improve as a player.
“How do you connect with couples?” I’m extroverted so it’s super easy for me to connect with couples. Being around other people is what gives me life. I love to hear their stories of how they met, and hearing their vows is always really fun. I’m often crying hearing these sweet stories!
“What, in your opinion, is the difference btw just recorded music (playlist, DJ) and live music at a wedding?” Why do I go to concerts? To watch! Live music is such a visual element and while watching a DJ dance around can be cute, it’s so fascinating for me to watch musicians play.
“Why is live music expensive?” We’ve put in our 10,000 hours. I have two degrees in music, and I’ve been playing my instrument and perfecting my craft for over 30 years. We spend time in the practice room learning the notes before your Big Day – so it’s not just the time on site that you’re paying for.
Throughout the fifteen years I have been running my wedding planning and design company, A Day Like No Other, I have collaborated with Tiffany on countless wedding projects, and her work was always perfect and flawless – brides, bridesmaids and mothers were glowing and confident at looking their best ever! So Tiffany is certainly one to ask about all things “wedding hair and makeup!”
“How long have you been in business, and what brought you to hair/makeup styling?”
From the vibrant streets of Hong Kong and Taiwan to the glitz of Hollywood, my journey in the world of makeup and fashion has been a dream come true. As a child, alongside my sister, our shared love for fashion and makeup ignited my passion for beauty and style, and it’s evident that my path was always leading me to become a professional makeup and hair artist.
“What is your specific style – natural, elegant, glamorous…?”
Our approach centers on elevating natural beauty with luxurious, bespoke makeup and hair styling, ranging from timeless elegance to a radiant, youthful glow. We meticulously design each look to enhance your unique features, ensuring you look breathtaking in person and every photograph. With a refined, personalized touch, we craft an experience that reflects the sophistication and grace of your special day, leaving you feeling like the most beautiful version of yourself.
“What is your ideal bride/bridesmaid/mother?”
I especially love working with brides who have a sophisticated sense of style and are happy to communicate. If she wants to avoid overly dramatic, artificial, or stiff makeup and hairstyles, she is in the perfect place.
“Are you specializing in a particular technique? If so, why – what is unique about it?”
I am also certified in personal color analysis by a renowned South Korean school that works with K-pop celebrities as a stylist and image consultant. This expertise allows me to select the most flattering shades for your unique complexion, ensuring a radiant, harmonious look. With a cohesive blend of makeup, hair, and wedding gown coordination tailored to your undertone, you’ll achieve a polished, confident beauty that shines both in person and in photos.
“What is the difference between DIY hair/makeup and professional makeup?”
The difference between DIY hair/makeup and professional wedding makeup comes from expertise, longevity, and overall quality.- Wedding makeup isn’t just about looking good in person—it should translate well in professional photography. A skilled artist knows how to balance tones, prevent flashbacks, and create dimension so you look stunning in every shot.
“What is the difference between great and not-so-great hair and makeup?”
A great professional artist understands facial structure, skin type, and personal color analysis, enhancing natural beauty while ensuring your makeup looks perfect in natural light and photography.They are experienced in helping brides look fresh from morning to night, even through tears, sweat, and dancing.
“When choosing a stylist, which questions should a bride ask? What are “red flags” to avoid?”
When choosing a wedding stylist, ask about their bridal experience, trial sessions, long-wear techniques, and how they ensure your makeup looks great in photos. Check if they travel, can accommodate your bridal party, and have a backup plan in emergencies. Red flags include poor communication, lack of portfolio, lack of hygiene, unclear pricing or contracts, and a pushy attitude disregarding your vision. A great stylist should be reliable, skilled, and focused on making you look flawless in person and in photos.
“How much time do you reserve for each service? And do you recommend touch-ups during the wedding day?”
For a bride, I typically reserve 2.5 hours to ensure a relaxed, thorough application of makeup and hair, allowing plenty of time for adjustments and details. I allocate 40 minutes per person for each bridal party member, providing ample time for makeup and hairstyling without feeling rushed. I also recommend daily touch-ups, especially for the bride, to maintain a flawless look. I offer on-site touch-up services, or we provide a small kit ready for any quick fixes as needed.
“Why is professional hair/makeup so expensive?”
Professional makeup and hairstyling is an investment because it ensures a flawless, long-lasting look using high-quality tools and techniques that are difficult to replicate at home. Professionals consider flattering color choices that enhance your natural beauty and adapt to lighting conditions, ensuring you look stunning both in person and in photos. They provide a stress-free, customized experience, taking the pressure off you on your big day and allowing you to relax. A professional creates a harmonious look that suits your undertones and personal style, giving you a polished, elegant result that lasts throughout the event.
“Anything else you’d like to add?”
Yes!
To make the bridal experience even more luxurious, I love to pamper my brides with special touches like essential oils, face masks, massages, and a glowy body oil to add that extra radiance. The process is designed to be relaxing and stress-free, offering a comfortable, pampering atmosphere where brides feel genuinely cared for. I focus on every detail, from perfecting the skin tone to ensuring the hair stays intact, all while ensuring every aspect of the look is flawless for pictures. The entire experience is about creating a serene, luxurious moment that leaves the bride feeling confident and beautiful.
Expert interview with Kier LaCrosse of Allegra Events
I have always been a fan of strategic lighting in event design – I think it makes all the difference! But you need not take it from me alone… here are the insights of Kier LaCrosse who has been running a professional event lighting company – Allegra Events – for more than two decades!
“What services does your company offer?“
Allegra Entertainment & Events is unique because we offer so many different services under one roof. We are a full-service event design, lighting, entertainment, audio visual and production firm.
“How did you get into lighting design and production?“
I was a lead guitarist and toured for over 14 years post university at a very high level. Unfortunately, my left hand was just about ruined by a vicious dog attack. My career as a guitarist was over in 15 seconds. I had to reinvent myself, so the event industry was a natural transition.
“What are a few of your biggest projects, your proudest work?“
Biggest Projects:
Producing the NHL Stadium Series outdoor hockey game at Levi Stadium between the LA Kings and San Jose Sharks. At the time, it was the largest event ever held at Levi Stadium, just shy of 80,000 attendees.
Proudest Work:
I’d have to say – while still in college, having a song I wrote and recorded with my band climb up the radio charts to #3 in the company of U2, Sting, Def Leppard++. Imagine driving down the road and hearing your song on the radio for the first time! Again, I was in college back then. It was surreal and certainly a proud moment. Note: this was back when music was made by artists/ musicians and garage bands and not by today’s corporate music industry which dictates what we will listen to. The “little guy,” artist, college/local band or act still had a chance to be heard back then, and in some cases – even to “make it.”
– “What are the main types of lighting (e.g. string lights, pin-spots, up lights, gobos…)“
We offer just about any lighting service needed. Practically all of our lighting is battery-powered, state-of-the-art and very much “easy on the eye” / designer lighting gear.
For the wedding industry in particular, we are offering design lighting: pinspots, washes, uplighting, and gobos. I have been told that our gobos are “the crispiest in town!” Aside from weddings and social events, we also do stadium, big stage and name act productions… Ie. Earth Wind and Fire, Harry Connick Jr. +++++
It has been said that “Lighting is everything,” and I absolutely agree with that quote. One can throw thousands and thousands of dollars at events on food, beverage, décor, florals and even a cake. If you can’t see those items in a nice light, then that is an “opportunity missed.” The right lighting can take an old, tired space and just really warm it up. Add all the other ingredients in and – “BINGO!” – you got something really special. At the end of the day, for a reasonable design lighting investment, you really can get a great return.
“How has lighting design evolved over the years – what’s new and exciting now?”
LED technology is what has profoundly changed the “lighting game.” LEDs with their low power needs in combination with battery-powered products have really been a game changer. We were early in the game designing battery-powered lighting over two decades ago; so it’s not really new to us – actually, by now it’s pretty much commonplace and a huge overseas industry.
THANK YOU FOR THESE INSIGHTS, KIER!
If you want such a magical transformation for YOUR wedding – contact me at [email protected] for your free consultation.
A Day Like No Other – wedding coordination and design
Never heard of it? You should! The Arlo is a brand-new, super-modern, hyper-chic wedding venue in the countryside just outside of Austin, TX, and living proof that YES, you can have urban elegance AND romantic rolling hills!
It’s all white with huge windows all around, and that way, bright daylight floods the expansive interior spaces.
There is a double-height Great Room for dinner and dancing, accommodating up to 300 (!) guests; there is even a stunning indoor ceremony space with massive ceiling beams – that are meant to be decorated with suspended greenery, florals or swags.
There is a white-on-white flight of stairs for unforgettable send-offs…
There is a bridal suite right out of “ELLE Decor” – so beautifully designed and decorated! – and a whole cottage for groom and groomsmen; there are covered, shaded patios for Cocktail Hour…
… and of course, a ceremony lawn, with the ceremony spot anchored on an outdoor fireplace.
Not to forget, there are endless views, and heavenly peace and quiet – less than an hour from the city, yet truly a world apart.
To me, the Arlo was a huge discovery, and I can’t wait to create “wedding magic” there!
Jira and I go back many years. I hardly know anyone as hardworking as her. We have collaborated on countless weddings… not only because she is extremely experienced, professional and so good at what she does – she can also bring a whole army of qualified assistants to any wedding, so styling a dozen bridesmaids in time is absolutely no problem for her.
“How long have you been in business, and what brought you to hair/makeup styling?“
My passion for beauty began in childhood, as I loved making my friends and family look beautiful. By now, with Jira Salon and Wowpretty Makeup and Hair Agency, I look back on over 25 years of experience and more than 5,000 successful clients.
What is your specific style – natural, elegant, glamorous…? What is your ideal bride/bridesmaid/mother?
My team and I specialize in various styles, including natural, elegant, and glamorous looks. We understand that everyone has unique facial features, personalities, and personal styles. As experts in beauty, we take the time to understand each client’s vision, ensuring they achieve the look they love the most.
Are you specializing in a particular technique? If so, why – what is unique about it?
Yes, I specialize in creating customized bridal looks that enhance each bride’s natural beauty while complementing their unique facial features, personality, and wedding style.
Jira at work at one of my brides
What is the difference between DIY hair/makeup and professional makeup?
Professional makeup artists and hairstylists have extensive training and experience in working with different skin types, facial features, and hair textures. They understand how to create looks that enhance natural beauty, complement individual styles, and last all day—especially crucial for weddings and special events.
Professionals use high-quality, long-wearing products and advanced techniques, such as airbrush makeup for a flawless, lightweight finish and precision hairstyling for lasting volume and elegance. They also know how to ensure that makeup looks stunning both in person and in high-definition photography, which is often a challenge with DIY applications.
While DIY makeup can be fun for everyday looks, professional artistry ensures a polished, camera-ready, and long-lasting result that brings out the best version of you on your special day.
What is the difference between great and not-so-great hair and makeup?
“The difference between great and not-so-great hair and makeup comes down to technique, product quality, and how well the look is tailored to the individual.
Great hair and makeup enhance natural beauty, complement facial features, and suit the occasion, personality, and style of the person wearing it. The application is seamless, blending effortlessly into the skin, with makeup that looks flawless both in person and in photos. High-quality products ensure long-lasting wear, and hairstyling maintains its shape and elegance throughout the event.
On the other hand, not-so-great hair and makeup can appear cakey, uneven, or unblended, failing to enhance the individual’s features. Poor-quality products may cause the makeup to fade, smudge, or oxidize, while improper hairstyling techniques can lead to flat or overly stiff hair that doesn’t hold up. Additionally, if the look doesn’t match the person’s style, skin tone, or event setting, it may feel unnatural or uncomfortable.
A skilled professional ensures that hair and makeup are expertly applied, flattering, and long-lasting, giving confidence and elegance to every client.
Again – Jira at work at one of my brides
When choosing a stylist, which questions should a bride ask? What are “red flags” to avoid?
Questions to ask:
What is your experience with bridal hair and makeup? – Ensures the stylist has expertise in wedding beauty.
Can I see your portfolio or client reviews? – Helps assess their style, quality of work, and consistency.
Do you offer a trial session? – A trial is crucial to test the look before the wedding day.
What products do you use? – High-quality, long-lasting products are essential for durability and a flawless finish.
Do you offer airbrush makeup? – Airbrush can provide a lightweight, long-lasting, and HD-ready look.
How do you customize the look for different skin tones, textures, and hair types? – Ensures the stylist can work with diverse features.
What is your pricing and what does it include? – Helps clarify costs, potential add-ons, and travel fees.
How do you handle last-minute changes or emergencies? – Professional stylists should have a backup plan.
How long will the styling process take on the wedding day? – Timing is key to avoid delays.
Do you stay for touch-ups or offer additional services for the bridal party? – Some stylists provide extended services for a flawless look throughout the event.
2. Red Flags to Avoid:
Lack of a portfolio or inconsistent work – A professional should have clear examples of past bridal work. No trial session or refusal to do one – A trial is essential for ensuring satisfaction with the final look. Poor hygiene or expired products – Clean tools and fresh products are critical for skin and hair health. Limited knowledge of different skin tones and hair textures – A stylist should be experienced in working with diverse clients. Unclear pricing or hidden fees – A professional should provide a detailed breakdown of costs. Negative reviews or complaints about professionalism – Check for patterns in feedback regarding punctuality, communication, or reliability. Unwillingness to listen or customize the look – A great stylist should tailor the look to the bride’s preferences. Lack of a contract – A contract protects both parties and ensures clarity on services provided. Overbooking on the wedding day – If a stylist juggles too many clients, they may be rushed or unavailable for touch-ups. Unreliable communication – Slow responses or lack of professionalism in communication can be a red flag for potential issues.
Not on time, forgot equipment – Being late or forgetting equipment is not acceptable. It’s very important to make sure you bring everything on the day, even products and colors you may not use but know you might need. In 80% of the cases, the bride may change her mind at the last minute and want a different look, so as a good stylist, we need to be prepared for those changes – just in case.”
A professional stylist should be experienced, communicative, and committed to making the bride feel confident and beautiful on her big day.
How much time do you reserve for each service? And do you recommend touch-ups during the wedding day?
I typically reserve around 2 hours for the bride and 1 to 1.5 hours for each additional woman, for a comfortable experience and a flawless finish
Yes, we do recommend touch-ups during the wedding day, especially for the bride, as it ensures she looks fresh and flawless throughout the event. However, we understand that weddings can be costly, and touch-up services can add to the expense.
To help with this, we always suggest that brides consider doing their own touch-ups themselves if they prefer to keep costs down. During the trial or pre-wedding consultation, we take the time to show and teach each bride how to touch up their makeup and hair so they feel confident doing it themselves. This way, they can maintain their look without the added cost while still looking great throughout the day.”
Why is professional hair/makeup so expensive?
“Professional hair and makeup services may seem expensive, but there are several factors that contribute to the cost.
Experience and Expertise: Skilled professionals bring years of training, practice, and specialized knowledge to ensure that your hair and makeup not only look flawless but also last throughout the entire day. They know the best techniques, products, and tools to create a look that enhances your natural beauty and is suited to your unique features.
Quality Products and Tools: Professionals use high-quality, long-lasting products that are designed for special occasions, ensuring a flawless finish that stays in place through photos, emotions, and all-day wear. This also includes premium tools, such as brushes, tools for airbrushing, and high-end styling tools, which all come with additional costs.
Personalized Service: Each service is tailored specifically to the client, whether it’s creating a unique bridal look, understanding different skin tones, hair textures, or catering to specific requests. This level of customization requires additional time and expertise.
Time Commitment: On the wedding day, a stylist will spend several hours preparing the bride, bridal party, and others. Beyond the actual styling, there’s time for consultation, trial sessions, and any last-minute adjustments, as well as preparation time for the artist to ensure they’re equipped for the event.
Travel and On-Site Services: Many professionals offer on-site services, meaning they travel to your location on the wedding day, which adds travel time, transportation costs, and sometimes overnight accommodations for destination weddings.
Specialized Skillset: Bridal hair and makeup artists have expertise in creating looks that photograph beautifully, last all day, and stand up to the emotional rollercoaster of a wedding. They also have the ability to quickly adjust to changing conditions, whether it’s the weather or specific requests from the bride or bridal party.
Ultimately, the cost reflects the value of the professional’s time, skill, quality, and the overall experience they provide to make the bride feel confident and beautiful on her special day.”
Anything else you’d like to add
Yes! HOW WE ARE DIFFERENT!
Expertise and Experience: Our team of licensed cosmetologists boasts a minimum of 10 years of experience in the industry, with unique talents and skills.
Cutting-Edge Techniques: Our makeup artists are at the forefront of the industry, utilizing the newest airbrushing techniques to achieve flawless, long-lasting results and any look desired.
Personalized Service: With our large staff, we offer tiered pricing for different levels of expertise, and we include airbrushing and lashes at no additional cost.
Convenience and Flexibility: Visit us at our salon in Burlingame, CA, or let us come to you, anywhere in the world. In the rare event of an emergency, rest assured that we always have additional stylists on call to save the day.
Trial Sessions and Guarantee: If for any reason you’re not satisfied with your trial, you can choose another stylist at no additional cost.
Attention to Detail: Our consultations include trial makeup and hair sessions, allowing for feedback and adjustments to ensure there are no surprises on your wedding day.
Professional Connections: With our extensive network of professional vendors in the Bay Area, we can coordinate with your wedding planner and other vendors to ensure that every aspect of your wedding is flawless and perfect.
At Wowpretty, we promise seamless coordination with you and your planner; we develop a well-planned timeline, and we have high attention to detail, a personalized approach, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, joy, and new beginnings.
Let Wowpretty Team be a part of your special day, and together, we’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
