Headband Hair Inspiration for the Holidays

We all know it's no big secret that I just love accessories, and the bolder the better! My messy bun look is the perfect pairing with this embellished velvet headband, and I promise you that the style is DIY friendly!

I like to start off with second day wavy hair and apply some dry shampoo. Then I brush all but my face framing pieces into a low pony (after teasing my crown generously).

Next, I pull the sides down to cover most of my ears, and then I pull the top upward for messy, imperfect volume.

Now I'm ready for the bun. I tease the entire pony with my brush and then roll and bobby pin it into place. The key here is that it is okay to make the bun shape a little flat to the head in order to be able to make it appear wide and full.

And remember, this style (like most others) will be different every time you do it, and that's part of what makes it special. Have fun with it, and don't expect perfection of yourself. This is a relaxed look.

For a little added guidance, be sure to check out my IGTV video tutorial of this look.

I'm Choosing Gratitude, Here's How You Can Too

For many people (myself included), 2020 will be remembered as a year of cancelled plans, lost income, and daily uncertainty around well... everything.

As November marks the beginning of the Holiday Season, I generally like to reflect on the year and particularly focus on what I am thankful for in my life. Why should this year be any different?

In fact, in the various times this year when I have felt defeated, worried, or disappointed- what has gotten me through was turning my focus to the little things in that moment that WERE going well, or what has happening in the next 24 hours that I could look forward to (because hey, if it was less than 24 hours away it probably wasn't going to get cancelled anymore).

photo by Darcy Demmel

I'd encourage everyone to come up with a list of what they are grateful for right in this moment. Maybe even write it down so you can remind yourself when you're having a not-so-great day.

Here is my top three (in no particular order) to get you started;

1. I am grateful for our clients who have gotten/are getting married this year. Even though couples have made sacrifices and settled for a celebration different than what they planned for, every single time that we get to the wedding day everyone is just genuinely overjoyed that it is actually the big day and it is actually happening! The wedding day joy this year is indescribable, and Ladies- that feeling is contagious! So thank you for sharing it with my team and I!

2. I am grateful for the cozy little nest that is my home. With the days getting shorter, I am so happy to have 500 square feet and a balcony where I can take off my mask and light a handful of candles and settle in for the evening.

3. I am grateful for my nephew. On a stressful day, it's so special to share a laugh with him via Facetime and get a glimpse of the world through the optimistic eyes of a six year old.

photo by Darcy Demmel

Who wants to play dress up?

Just in time for Halloween (and because there's a lot of us who won't be doing the whole costume-party thing this year), I am so excited right now to show off our work at a Star Wars themed wedding shoot with Millennium Moments Photography!

When Nicole (of Millennium Moments Studio) first introduced her idea, I'll admit it- I couldn't picture it. Star Wars Wedding?!?! A quick glance at her mood board and I was already on board- and brainstorming how we would contribute to the project.

This concept is really all about the details... even the tiniest of details. The best thing about this shoot is that it's proof a couple can incorporate a theme (any interest of the couple) into the celebration to make things fun while still keeping it classy.

Scroll on and see how many Star Wars details you can find!

hint: Check out Amber's bouquet!

The team behind this project:

Organizer: Millennium Moments Studio Venue: Warehouse 109

Makeup & Hair: Beauty by Ann Krause Stationary: Paper Majik Design Events

Event Planner: Coco and Colxe Events

Florist: Wild Rose Flowers Decor Cake: Sweet Moments Inc. Dress: K Phillips Clothier Balloon Arch: Gabiva Events Models: Amber Kamp & J White