Calling ItaliaHairColor!

[Haven]

Hi, Italia,

I see you''re from the Chicago area, and it sounds like you''re in the wedding business. Have any good vendor recs for all the Chicago brides? I''m also looking for hair and makeup services for the day off--any suggestions? I''m always more comfortable checking out a company from a personal recommendation.

Thanks!

 

[Haven]

Are you out there, Italia?

 

[Italiahaircolor]

Hi Haven! Sorry, I didn''t even see this post...but I''ll be more than happy to help you out in any way I can!

First of all, yes, I do work in the bridal industry. I have worked full time as a Chicago Director for a cosmetics company for years...and I noticed a large niche that wasn''t being filled, and that was for truly trained, dependable and talented artists that offer the complete package--hair and makeup. We lauched this division a year or so back, and have since branched out into even a wider scope of the industry...including bridal consultants.

Chicago does have a lot of great vendors to choose from when it comes to hair and makeup, you''re lucky! I''ll share with you a few basic rules that can help you in deciding who to book with and who to avoid...

First and foremost, you want to find an artist that can share in your vision. If you find that you''re having miscommunications, you shouldn''t proceed with that artist.

Secondly, try to find someone that is willing to come to you. I would avoid going to salons or counters to have your day of services done. Regardless of what time you''re exchanging vows, the actual "day of the wedding" can become a cluster and very hectic. If you can avoid having additional stressors, like a stylist running late--or a makeup artist quitting her counter--do so!

Ummmm... I''m searching my brain on what else to suggest...

Please feel free to ask direct questions...such as florists, cakes, ect...and I will be as direct as possible and promise to continue checking this post several times a day!

 

[Haven]

Thanks, Italia! Your job sounds FABULOUS! I studied English lit and technical theatre (costume & makeup) in college, so I took loads of makeup courses in college and loved each and every one! I''m an English teacher now, though, so I don''t spend nearly enough time playing with cosmetics as I''d like to.

I really appreciate your suggestions; it is SO intimidating trying to choose vendors when there are so many available.

We actually don''t have many vendors yet, we''re pretty laid back--the only things we have done are the place, the rabbi, the dress, and the caterer. I''m actually most concerned about my hair and makeup, to be honest, because, well, I want to look great on my wedding day! Would you suggest using one of these companies that has several artists on hand to do events, or should I contact a specific makeup company or salon? Is there a difference?

Thank you so much! Any other suggestions are welcome, I am one overwhelmed bride!

 

[Italiahaircolor]

Not many "companies" have bridal departments...so I would suggest contacting a freelance artist--which you can look up on the ''net or the Knot. You may have to have a few trials before making the end decision...but it''ll be worth it! Be sure to sign a contract and read it over! If you need additional artists depending on how many girls you have, discuss this with the artist you ultimately hire, what you think may be overwhelming may actually be "do-able" for her. Oh...and make sure to tip! You wouldn''t believe how many brides don''t do that!!!!