How to Dress up your Casual Holiday Looks

If you've been round here for a little while, you'll probably know my answer to this challenge- ACCESSORIZE! This Holiday season, I've hit the stores (multiple times) in search of the best accents to take our party looks to the next level, and I promise you that all of these are (ugly or not) holiday sweater compatible!

Up first is Layering Fancy Headbands. I found these two as a set at Anthropologie, so maybe I cheated. But finding pieces to pair up doesn't have to be tricky. I recommend looking for 2 different thicknesses in different fabrics or textures in colors that are complimentary but not the same. You can can also use a sparkly metal band with some height, next to a fabric one. I get headaches easily from the metal- otherwise, I'd rock that look, too.

Always place the larger headband first, and then the smaller one in front of it. I like to wave my hair first to complete the look!

Next up is Stacking Bold Barrettes. What do you know- I have a theme here! One alone would be pretty, but side by side, this chain link style from Express really stands out!

I prefer to sweep back a bit of my hair on the side. Teasing at the root first gives some added volume and the perfect amount of messiness.

I also love how these look next to the low bun that I throw together in 3 minutes. I would even consider this style to go with a formal outfit/event!

Happy Holidays, Friends!

Ann

Holiday Beauty Inspiration from our Brides

There's just something about a holiday wedding! As long as you can accept the possibility of some really cold midwest weather, it's a beautiful and peaceful time of year- and a great opportunity to step up the glam factor of your wedding day look. Plus, the holiday displays around the city always make for some amazing backdrops for your photos.

Just check out our December brides from 2020! It's crazy to think how small weddings were at this time last year (two of these were actually elopements on weekdays), but you wouldn't know it from the beautiful memories we were able to create with these lovely ladies.

Enjoy!

(above) Eva

12.2.20

Photos by Iron and Honey Photography

(above) Rose

12.9.20

Photos by Anna Zajac Weddings

(above) Stephanie

12.31.21

Photos by Nicole Morisco

Happy Holidays, Friends!

The Questions You Need to Ask When Choosing Wedding Beauty Pros

Planning your wedding is a process that will involve a lot of "firsts". After all, unless you've done this before, or were very involved with a friend's planning, it can be easy to get overwhelmed once you really get into it. There can be a handful of surprises, and things that pop up that you had never thought of before. And then there's decision paralysis; I will be the first to admit that the wedding market in Chicago is huge, and there are many talented vendors here.

Below, I share my checklist of ALL the important details you need to cover with your wedding day hair and makeup artists/team. Following this list will make sure that you select the professionals who are best for you, and that there are no surprises down the road.

1. Where are services performed (At the artist's location or yours)?

2. What are the travel and/or parking fees (if applicable)?

3. What do the rates include? Don't be afraid to ask questions here if it is not perfectly clear. Different pros structure their rates and packages differently and you want to make sure that you know exactly what you are getting- especially if you've shopped around.

4. What happens if I need to reschedule my date? Hopefully we're out of the woods here, but doesn't hurt to ask.

5. Are there any additional charges?

6. What happens if I need to change my location, time, or party size down the road?

7. Do I get to work with my wedding day artists for my trial run session?

8. Can I see the portfolio(s) of the exact artist(s) who I will be working with?

9. What does the process look like (from booking my services until the wedding day)?

10. What methods of payment are accepted, and when are payment(s) due?

Of course, if anything else comes to mind, don't be afraid to ask any professionals you are considering working with on your wedding day. The list I've shared here covers all of the most important details.

Happy Wedding Planning!

xoxo,

Ann