Hiring an Updo Artist

Congratulations! You’re getting married! You've pinned all your favorite décor ideas on Pintrest and researched your venues, DJs and photogaphers. But don't forget about your updo artist! 
You may have an awesome hairstylist, one whom you can't wait to tell that you’re engaged, and you have no doubt that she will do your wedding updo. You ask her to jot you down in the appointment book for your big day, and shes says, "I don't do updos."  Gasp! You think, "What? Did you miss that day at cosmetology school!" 
The truth is that most cosmetology schools only teach you what you need to know to pass the state board. Unfortunately, there is no updo section on the state board! If you want to learn updos, you have to invest time in them.  Your stylist may have an awesome knack for it and/or has taken some awesome classes in order to understand the construction of the styles.

Make sure you ask your stylist questions! How many updos do you do in a year? Have you taken any classes to further your education? Will you come to where I am getting ready? Do you charge more to come to me? If they can't give you answers that make you feel confident, then reconsider! 

Ok, you've done some research, but now what? Most updo artists will offer or insist that you do a consultation with them. Do it! Be prepared. Have pictures and communicate what you want clearly, such as all up, all down, curls, waves, half up, a bun, messy, sophisticated, braids and the list goes on.. Be open-minded and talk to your stylist, but have realistic expectations. Some brides dream of having their hair down, but it might look best if it's all up depending on the dress. You might need to reconsider! Have a picture of your dress and jewelry, or show it to your stylist. If you have a veil or headpiece, bring it to the consultation. 

The consultation is the perfect time to tell your stylist what you like and don't like about your updo. Don't be afraid to tell the truth. Your stylist depends on it. It's a lot easier to change something during the consult than try to communicate what you want on your wedding day. If all else fails, have another consultation.
It's unrealistic for some brides to have a consultation if you are having a destination wedding or hiring a stylist from out of town. Just make sure you ask all the right questions, and check out their portfolio! 
Last but not least, I know most of you have a wedding day budget. Often, the bride forgets about her hair and makeup until the wedding day is upon her. We are one of the last vendors to get booked with the exception being highly organized brides. Either way, think long-term. You will be looking at these pictures forever. Is it really worth letting your best friend work her magic on your locks? Or on her own locks? Consider hiring the stylist for you as well as all your bridesmaids. Even moms and grandmas like to get in on the action. 
Here's hoping your wedding day is everything you ever dreamed of and more!

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